Future Leaders Academy:

Building Tomorrow’s
Changemakers

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Getting San Antonio #ReadyToLead

This fall, we offered a special Bootcamp edition of Future Leaders Academy for community education advocates who are #ReadyToLead.

Through virtual preparation and an immersive weekend Bootcamp, participants build the knowledge, tools, and connections to explore next steps into civic leadership—from school boards to public charter boards and advisory committees.  

Info Sessions

Interested in learning more?

Sign up for one of our virtual or in-person information sessions →

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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 in the near future 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 Bootcamp Cohort

Get Ready to Be Inspired

Get to know the 15 Bootcamp participants who are getting #ReadyToLead to shape a stronger, more equitable future for San Antonio’s public schools.

Amanda Bates

A former SAISD teacher and school leader who now serves as a statewide director for KIPP Texas, bringing experience in school operations, educator development, and improving outcomes for students.

Desiree Cordas-Henderson

A finance manager, U.S. Air Force Reserve paralegal, and mother of three with experience supporting local youth and volunteering in her school district.

Elizabeth “Liz” Arevalo

An education leader and former classroom teacher specializing in culturally relevant literacy and STEAM programs, family engagement, and partnerships that strengthen student outcomes.

Jeffery Mark Soileau

A military veteran, local business owner, and father of two public charter school students who is passionate about strengthening San Antonio’s future through community leadership.

Jessica Hernandez

A media and advertising professional with TelevisaUnivision who brings experience in strategic marketing, community engagement, and building partnerships.

John Jacobs

Director of K12 & Justice at UP Partnership, with 18 years of experience in student development, restorative practices, community collaboration, and systems change.

Jonathan Patrick Melchor

A finance professional, father, and community leader committed to servant leadership, civic engagement, and creating opportunities for the next generation.

Kanetra “Kiki” Hights

A community advocate, consultant, and board leader focused on leadership development, inclusive organizations, and strengthening civic participation.

Lily Garcia

Chief Operating Officer of Robert Garcia CPA, PLLC, a SA YOUTH board member, and an active civic leader who believes education opens doors for future generations.

Marcela Espinoza

Owner and director of Tia’s Child Care Academy and President of the Five Points Neighborhood Association, advocating for early childhood education, families, and stronger neighborhoods.

Mercedes Moreno

Senior Director of Development and Communications at Good Samaritan Community Services, bringing more than a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and relationship-building.

Phillip Anthony Sanchez

Director of the REALTOR® Academy at the San Antonio Board of REALTORS®, with extensive experience in business development, strategic partnerships, and community service.

Raissa Dominguez

An instructional assistant and community advocate committed to addressing educational inequities through collaboration, resource-sharing, and community action.

Stephen R. Lara

A registered architect and servant-minded leader who advocates for youth development, parent support, and stronger communities through civic involvement.

Thomas Jonathan Maese

A San Antonio educator and civic leader dedicated to classroom teaching, community service, and strengthening local engagement through collaboration.
Success Stories

Leading by Example

Read inspiring testimonials showcasing the experiences of our alumni.

"The Future Leaders Academy gives you an opportunity to find ways to make change happen. Change can happen in many different ways and it is through speaking your truth and letting others know that your voice will be heard. Change can happen with one little thing at a time."

- LaShawnda

"Futuro Leaders Academy is a great program to start your journey in civic leadership and learn how to get involved in supporting the improvement of education policy in San Antonio. You will get to connect with other people focus on civic leadership and be part of a strong community of support."

- Fiorella

"I strongly believe Futuro's dedication to equipping and educating our communities parents, partners and youth champions is the most valuable and amazing thing to do and how it's done is phenomenal! Thank y'all so much! Looking forward to what is coming up next!"

- Frances

"It's a great program to connect with other like minded individuals and explore your path as leader in your community."

- Esparza

"I believe you should participate in a future leaders academy cohort to open your mind to other opportunities that you are very capable of. Even if you are uncertain now, still take the class to give yourself a chance at something greater."

- Monique

"Learn about your power and influence in your community. You can really run for office and there's help. FLA had great resources to learn."

- Christy

"People should participate in FLA because it's information that other people have to research and learn over multiple years, and pay others to gain experience. Here, it's given to you from mentors that are experienced in the field and that want to see us succeed rather than expect something out of it. Even when the program is done, you can ask for support and community through your cohort."

- Alyssa

"The plethora or knowledge and the wonderful experience is nothing short of amazing."

- Melissa

Futuro has created a course to prepare people to get involved in the community, civic duties and engagement. Futuro is giving selfless service to our city and I am passionate about helping in a way to build our children, families, and people up. Uplift and encourage one person can lead to encouraging many.

- Tina

Apply for the Bootcamp

Be Part of Something Bigger

Applications for the 2026 Bootcamp are now open!

Apply September 1
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Know someone who is ready to lead? Nominate them here →

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