SAISD COMING ATTRACTIONS
March 20, 2026
SAISD SPOTLIGHT: SAISD Police Department uniform change in support of National Autism Awareness Month
The San Antonio ISD Police Department will recognize National Autism Awareness Month in April department-wide initiative. Starting March 29 and continuing through May 2, SAISD officers will be authorized to wear modified police patches featuring the symbolic ribbon of neurodiversity.
The initiative aims to foster a deeper connection between law enforcement and the diverse student population they serve. By integrating this symbol into the official uniform, the department seeks to promote visibility, acceptance, and a sense of belonging for neurodivergent students and their families.
"Our officers are more than just protectors; they are mentors and community pillars," said SAISD Police Chief Johnny Reyes, Jr. "By wearing these patches, we are sending a clear message to our students and families that we see them, we support them, and we are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual feels safe and understood."
Schedule a time to visit with SAISD Police Chief Johnny Reyes, Jr. to see the uniform modifications and to learn more about the department continuing to implement community-oriented initiatives.
Calendar items
March 20 (Fri) – Whittier Middle School 4th Annual Multicultural Festival
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Whittier Middle School, 2101 Edison Drive, 78201
Whittier Middle School brings its community together annually for a night of free food, music, and cultural performances. The campus has been fundraising throughout the school year and working with partners like Walmart, H-E-B and Trader Joes to make this year’s festival even better for the Whittier familia.
March 22 (Sun) – SAISD Culinary Arts teams compete at annual Paella Challenge
Noon to 4 p.m., Mission County Park, 6030 Padre Drive, 78214
At the 15th annual Paella Challenge, two SAISD student Culinary Arts teams will be competing in the High School Challenge to win a trip to New York City! Brackenridge High School returns to the competition after earning a trip to the Big Apple in 2025 as the H-E-B Paella Challenge runner-up. Lanier High School will also compete at the event that has San Antonio’s top chefs going head-to-head in a competition to create the most impressive and tasty paella dishes cooked right before your eyes.
March 23 (Mon) – 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.
March 25 (Wed) – SAISD Police Town Hall at Sam Houston High School
6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sam Houston High School, 4635 E. Houston St, 78220
Continuing the series of town hall meetings, SAISD invites the public to hear from District Police Chief Johnny Reyes, Jr. at Sam Houston High School to ask questions and discuss any issues affecting the community.
March 26 (Thurs) – SAISD Special Olympics
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Alamo Convocation Center, 110 Tuleta Drive, 78212
The ECSE Olympics celebrates all the magnificent things our littlest learners can do. During this event hosted by the Special Education Department, young athletes participate in various motor skills activities designed just for them. More than 450 young student athletes are expected from SAISD elementaries and academies and early childhood special education programs. High School student volunteers will be assisting these young students in participating in a variety of motor-based activities.