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The Centers for Applied Science and Technology (CAST Schools) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in San Antonio, TX with a network of 5 tuition-free, industry-led, career-themed high schools, one middle school, and one pre-k through 12th Academy. CAST’s innovative school model allows students to learn by doing and gain real world experience through internship, job shadowing and mentorship opportunities, and is among the first of its kind in the state of Texas.
Each CAST school focuses on a set of high-demand, high-wage industries. Students choose a school based on career interest, setting personal goals and mastering learning concepts at their own pace. Students tackle real-world projects designed by local employers and work in teams alongside industry mentors.
The schools are overseen by the CAST Schools Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and operate in partnership with local public school districts in San Antonio, Texas.
The schools are designed to be operationally self-sufficient. CAST relies on industry partners, foundations and other public funding sources to support the startup years and the nonprofit.
The tuition-free schools offer a combination of blended learning, project-based learning, and work-based learning, freeing teachers to act as coaches and mentors, with class time structured around research, labs, and offsite experiences in the workplace.
All students will have access to earn transferable college credits plus relevant industry recognized certificates to minimize the cost of college and elevate their resume in the workforce.
The Centers for Applied Science and Technology (CAST) Network is a tax-exempt organization as described in Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service code. CAST Schools are partnership schools with a focus on STEM careers, project based learning and work-based learning. Key partners include public school districts, higher education institutions, and local employers from target industries.
