SAISD SPOTLIGHT: The YMLA annual MLK 5K run helps students reach their dreams
The annual Young Men’s Leadership Academy 5K run (see below) that is hosted on the Martin Luther King holiday weekend is more than just a race; it is a powerful demonstration of the Academy’s commitment to the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event is a part of the citywide “DreamWeek” observing the MLK holiday. The YMLA MLK 5K Run/Walk helps continue the work of empowering the young leaders in SAISD while also honoring Dr. King’s legacy through service, unity, and action.
With all proceeds going to student programs, the MLK 5K run helps fund the following:
*Leadership Development: Funding for off-site retreats, mentorship workshops, and the "Social Experience" curriculum that transforms students into effective thinkers and world-class leaders;
*Academic Enrichment: Resources for campus distinguished high school graduation plans, ensuring every scholar has the tools to excel in rigorous, college-preparatory environments; and
*Extracurricular Access: Support for clubs, athletic programs, and civic engagement trips that might otherwise be out of reach, ensuring a truly comprehensive educational journey.
Come experience the power of the YMLA MLK 5K by talking with student leaders who make this project prosper year after year on the city’s East side.
Calendar items
Jan. 16 (Fri) – SAISD 8th Grade Family Night
6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Burbank High School, 1002 Edwards St., 78204
The SAISD Office of Access and Enrollment is excited to invite families with 8th grade students to the district’s second 8th Grade Family Night. This event is designed to provide a family-friendly environment where students and their families can explore enrollment options for the transition from 8th to 9th grade. Family Night offers students and families the opportunity to learn more about the 9th grade extracurricular and academic program offerings available at 15 SAISD high schools. This timely event will assist students and families in making course selections as the January 30 deadline to make decisions rapidly approaches.
Jan. 18 (Sun) – Annual YMLA MLK 5K Run
9 a.m. to 11 a.m., MLK Park, 3503 Martin Luther King Drive, 78220
Organized by the first all-boys public school in San Antonio, this event serves as a public pledge to uphold Dr. King’s "Beloved Community" through education and leadership. While the race honors a historic legacy, it also builds a future one. 100% of the proceeds from the MLK 5K are funneled directly back into the student experience at YMLA, serving as a primary engine for their specialized programming.
Jan. 19 (Mon) – SAISD Familia participating in annual MLK March
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., (Starting point) MLK Academy, 3501 Martin Luther King Drive, 78220
SAISD students and staff will proudly join an estimated 300,000 people in San Antonio’s annual MLK March that encourages communities to help fulfill Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream. Board trustees will also be a part of the SAISD contingent, as well as a variety of campuses and student groups, such as district middle school LOTC units. The Sam Houston High School marching band proudly takes their spot leading the parade with their signature style and sound.
Jan. 19 (Mon) – SAISD closed for MLK Jr. holiday
All SAISD offices and campuses will be closed on January 19 for the MLK Jr. holiday. Normal business hours will resume on January 20.
Jan. 20 (Tues) – SAISD Board Meeting
5:30 p.m., SAISD Board Room, 514 W. Quincy St., 78212 or online
Link: https://www.saisd.net/page/dis-board-videos
The SAISD Board of Trustees will hold its regularly scheduled meeting at the central administrative office.
Jan. 22 (Thurs) – SAISD Students build beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sleep in Heavenly Peace, 5536 Business Park, 78218
Students from Lanier and Sam Houston High School Construction Program will assist at the non-profit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for students in need in our surrounding community. This is the third year SAISD students have participated in this volunteer opportunity. Students from Lanier and Sam Houston will help build twin-size beds for students in need within our community. There is a step-by-step process for building the beds. The three SAISD construction programs at Lanier, Sam Houston, and Jefferson high schools are proud to lend a hand in their communities. Jefferson students completed their portion of the project on a previous date.
Jan. 23 (Fri) – SAISD 5th Grade Family Night
6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Harris Middle School, 325 Pruitt Ave., 78204
SAISD invites the community to their middle school edition of Family Night. This event is tailored for families with students in 5th grade going into 6th grade for the 2026-27 school year. Students and families can visit with traditional middle schools and choice campuses to explore the various programs and extracurricular opportunities each has to offer.