Are You Ready to Lead?
We’re building a pipeline of parents, caregivers, and grassroots advocates ready to champion educational equity across all public schools. Whether you want to run for office, support a local campaign, or elevate your civic leadership—this program is for you.
Through this fellowship, you’ll build the skills and confidence to advocate for San Antonio’s families and schools:
- Do you see yourself running for office one day or leading efforts that shape education in your community?
- Are you searching for meaningful ways to organize with others and advocate for equity across public education?
- Are you committed to putting students, parents, and community voices at the center of local decisions?
- Are you passionate about creating lasting change so every child in San Antonio has access to a great public education?
If so, the Future Leaders Academy is where your advocacy journey begins!
Designed to Inspire Advocacy for Public Education
Skills You'll Develop
From immersive sessions to community conversations to 1:1 coaching, the Academy can help shape your advocacy impact:
- Leadership Growth
Define your story, strengthen your voice, and cultivate leadership that inspires action around public education.
- Policy Insight
Understand education policy, reform history, and the local political landscape to advocate effectively.
- Campaign Strategies
Gain practical tools in campaign planning and coalition-building to move issues that matter to families.
- Community Advocacy
Master the art of engaging parents, educators, and neighbors to mobilize grassroots power.
- Innovative Problem Solving
Collaborate on solutions that advance equity and opportunity across all public schools.
Alumni Benefits
Stay Connected, Stay Motivated
Explore the exclusive benefits and opportunities available to graduates of the Academy.
Remain connected to an exclusive network of program alumni and civic leaders affiliated with the program
FREE membership to Leadership for Educational Equity
Receive exclusive access to leadership opportunities in our city
Meet the Cohort
Get Ready to Be Inspired
Get to know the 15 dedicated parents, caregivers, and advocates in our 2026 cohort shaping a stronger, more equitable future for San Antonio’s public schools.
Herlinda Aguilar
A bilingual educator, wife, and mother of two who teaches AP Spanish and advocates for inclusive, equitable education for all students.
Lori Alvarez
A community-centered leader and advocate working at the intersection of education equity, maternal health, and volunteer engagement across Texas.
Nadia Briones
A South San Antonio native, certified athletic trainer, and graduate student committed to student wellness, leadership, and educational access.
Victoria Gonzalez
A project management specialist and digital strategist dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities through mentorship, technology, and advocacy.
Jasmine Hernandez
A claims adjuster, mother of two, and founder of Women With Motion, dedicated to empowering women of color and advancing civic leadership in San Antonio.
Netanya Jamieson
A seasoned nonprofit executive and global-minded leader specializing in community systems, housing stability, and capacity building.
Stephanie Keys
A San Antonio mathematics educator and teacher leader advancing equitable access to rigorous STEM and AP coursework through classroom instruction, district leadership, and community advocacy.
Regina Lopez
A petroleum operations professional at H-E-B and proud mother of four, bringing advocacy training and community leadership experience as a Latina Leadership Institute graduate.
Logan Martinez
A student, father, and community advocate committed to education policy and civic engagement, informed by his service on the Alamo Colleges District board.
Bianca Mendoza
A data and analytics professional, church leader, and parent advocate committed to strengthening public education for San Antonio families.
Gabby Patton
An educator and systems strategist using policy, organizing, and community-driven models to advance educational justice and family power.
Karla Gomez Sanchez
A Southside native, wife, and mother with deep cultural roots in Mexico, committed to serving her community and advocating for families.
Carla-Joy Sisco
A community leader, educator, and strategic consultant with over 20 years of experience advancing equity through education, housing, and systems leadership.
Jane Valadez
A nonprofit professional and mother focused on building partnerships and programs that expand access and opportunity for students and families.
Brandy Weitzel
A licensed professional counselor, nonprofit leader, and business owner specializing in trauma-informed care and community mental health advocacy.
Success Stories
Leading by Example
Read inspiring testimonials showcasing the experiences of our alumni.
Join the Academy
Be Part of Something Bigger
Applications for the 2026 cohort have closed, but subscribe to our mailing list below for updates.
Know someone who is ready to lead? Nominate them here →