College Launch: Helping the Class of 2026 Take Their Next Step

For thousands of SAISD seniors, graduation marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Some will be the first in their family to attend college. Others are pursuing careers, military service, or technical training. No matter the path, every graduate deserves the opportunity to begin their future with confidence.

At the SAISD Foundation, we’re committed to helping students launch successfully beyond high school. Through scholarships, free laptops, and dorm essentials, we’re investing in the Class of 2026 every step of the way.

Nearly 200 Scholarships Open Doors for SAISD Seniors

This spring, the SAISD Foundation awarded nearly 200 scholarships to graduating seniors across the district. Throughout May, students were surprised and celebrated during on-campus scholarship presentations, where donors, staff, and family members joined together to recognize their hard work and achievements.

For many students, a scholarship means more than financial assistance for tuition, books, or housing. It is a powerful reminder that their dreams matter and that an entire community believes in their potential.

These investments are helping fuel a remarkable trend. SAISD graduates are enrolling in and succeeding in college at record rates. Data shows that 58% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in a college or university during their first year after high school, while preliminary data indicates at least 60% of the Class of 2025 has already done the same—outperforming national trends for high-minority and high-poverty school districts. Behind every statistic is a student story.

Sophia Rodriguez, a recent graduate of Young Women’s Leadership Academy, is the first recipient of our brand new State of the District Scholarship, receiving up to $25,000 each year to fill her financial gap. This scholarship gave Sophia a choice about where she enrolls for college. She had her eye on Trinity University for as long as she can remember, feeling a strong sense of belonging on campus. However, she knew that UT San Antonio was a better fit for her family, financially. With this scholarship money, Sophia was able to choose her dream school and will be able to pursue her Ph.D. which she didn’t think would be possible.

Closing the Digital Divide Through Technology Access

Preparing students for college also means ensuring they have the tools necessary to succeed once they arrive on campus.

Last month, thanks to our partnership with Compudopt, 194 refurbished laptops were distributed to SAISD students and families in need. Despite rainy weather, SAISD Foundation Postsecondary Navigators and Foundation staff connected with every student who attended the distribution event, helping ensure they left equipped for their next chapter.

Access to reliable technology is no longer a luxury; it’s essential. These devices will help students stay connected, complete assignments, and take advantage of opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

Helping Students Feel at Home with the Annual Dorm Drive

Transitioning to college can be overwhelming, and having much-needed essentials can make a world of difference for our SAISD students. That’s why our annual Dorm Drive is underway. Each year, our community comes together to provide first-year college students with the essentials they need to feel prepared and at home in their new living spaces. From bedding and towels to laundry supplies and necessities, these items help ease the financial burden on students and families during an already expensive transition.

How You Can Support SAISD Students

1. Drop off new or gently used luggage and travel bags, bedding (XL twin) and towels, new pillows and blankets, pop-up laundry hampers or laundry bags and detergent, and shower caddies.
2. Make a donation toward dorm supplies: A gift of $100 will fully support one student. Your gift, whether big or small, sends a powerful message: You believe in our students and their future.
3. Shop our Amazon Registry  and have items shipped directly to us—it’s quick, easy, and convenient! No need to leave your home to make a difference. Let us do the shopping for you.

Drive by and drop off items now through July 11, 2026, at our offices located inside the SAISD Operations Services building at 1270 W. Summit. Drop-off times are between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday – Thursday. Offices will be closed June 29-July 3.

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Together, we are doing more than helping students graduate; we are helping them launch.