In a room buzzing with excitement and soon-to-be college freshmen—many bound for San Antonio College (SAC) and ready to become proud Armadillos—there’s a table in the back corner quietly changing futures. That’s where the SAISD Foundation Postsecondary Navigators are stationed, laptops open and ready to help SAISD graduates walk out with a class schedule in hand.

These Navigators play a critical role: they assist students in accessing the forms, documents, or test scores needed to ensure proper class placement. Whether students arrive independently or via provided transportation provided by the SAISD Foundation, the goal remains the same—get them registered and ready for the first day of college.

During each three-hour registration window, Navigators also make outreach calls to every student who RSVP’d, offering reminders and encouraging attendance. As students arrive, they check in and are guided through the process of verifying accounts, resolving holds, and confirming all requirements are met. Common roadblocks—like needing to complete an advising session or provide proof of a meningitis vaccine—are tackled on the spot. Thanks to their familiarity with SAC staff and available resources, Navigators are uniquely equipped to solve problems quickly and effectively.

Astrid, a Postsecondary Navigator, shared, “First-generation college students often feel the pressure to succeed not just for themselves, but for their entire family. ‘Beat the Heat’ trips are a fantastic way to introduce them to the university or College environment and its resources, helping them feel more at ease and prepared for the beginning of the semester.”

The heart of this program lies in its lasting impact. Once students leave the administration building, they not only have a schedule—they have a support system. Each student meets their dedicated Postsecondary Navigator, who will continue to assist them throughout their college journey. From registering for future semesters to securing technology to completing financial aid renewals, students have someone in their corner.

Beat the Heat isn’t just about getting students to college—it’s about keeping them there, all the way to commencement.