Aug. 10, 2026 – San Antonio ISD is issuing its Annual Call for Proposals for in-district charter schools for the 2027-28 school year. Proposals are sought to align with the district’s strategic goals to improve student outcomes, increase innovation, and expand high-quality options for families. Any non-profit 501c3 educational entity, higher education institution, or internal school leader may submit a proposal. Letters of intent are due Friday, Aug. 21.
An information session will be held virtually at noon on Tuesday, Aug. 25. Proposal applications will be due Friday, Sept. 11.
“The Annual Call for quality schools is SAISD's commitment to ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education,” said Melissa Alcala, Ed.D., assistant superintendent for 1882 partnerships. “It is our opportunity to reimagine what’s possible for our students by supporting bold, innovative school models that meet community needs and raise the bar for excellence.”
The current call is specifically seeking proposals for a turnaround elementary or middle school model, or an innovative school model that reimagines traditional schooling.
Submissions that propose to turnaround an elementary or middle school will serve a low-performing campus within the district, with a plan that demonstrates capacity to significantly raise academic achievement within two years. This plan also should outline strong instructional leadership and teacher development strategies, prioritize data-driven instruction and targeted student interventions, and offer a sustainable strategy to transform school culture and family engagement.
Submissions that propose an innovative school model may serve any grade configuration in PK-8 or alternative education program. Proposals should incorporate forward-thinking instructional models, provide evidence of how its proposed innovation is aligned with improved student outcomes, provide evidence of community input and demand for the model, and demonstrate clear strategies for scaling, sustainability, and staff training.
One school is identified for an innovative partnership:
• Cooper Academy at Navarro, 623 S. Pecos, San Antonio, TX 78207
Interested applicants will have access to district data, the campus improvement plan, and technical assistance sessions. Planning grants or startup funds may be available for approved proposals. Approved schools will operate under a performance contract with autonomy in exchange for accountability.
Applicants will be reviewed and potentially interviewed in October, with board approval for proposals that move forward scheduled in December.
The updated call for proposals (with embedded application) is available here: Annual Call 8.0
For more information, visit www.saisd.net/page/office-of-innovation.