The San Antonio ISD Board of Trustees confirmed Dr. Melissa Alcala as Assistant Superintendent of 1882 Partnerships. In her new role, Dr. Alcala will support choice schools within the district, including CAST Tech, to ensure every family has access to exceptional educational opportunities while preserving the innovative practices and autonomy that define 1882 schools.
In 2017, Dr. Melissa Alcala, in partnership with CAST Schools and San Antonio ISD, launched CAST Tech, San Antonio’s first high-tech high school, helping ignite a generation of entrepreneurs and techies. Today, the school serves over 500 students and celebrates over 300 alums plus over 30 industry partnerships, including H-E-B, Accenture, Firstmark Credit Union, Plus One Robotics, Tech Bloc, and more.
“I want to express my gratitude to our students, parents, and industry partners for being an integral part of CAST Tech. Your active involvement, support, and participation in our school programs have been instrumental to our success. Your voices and insights have shaped the very essence of our school,” shared Dr. Alcala.
Dr. Alcala has been a champion of student voice and engagement in every aspect of CAST Tech. During her seven years as principal, Dr. Alcala led the creation of the first User Design (UX) pathway in the country and launched an Early College Academy in partnership with the University of Texas at San Antonio, where students can earn credits in their degree major starting their junior year.
Led by their four (4) pillars: Character, Attitude, Service, and Trailblazer, students regularly participate in industry advisory groups, have the opportunity to establish school clubs, and give feedback during annual focus groups.
“We are so grateful to founding principal Dr. Melissa Alcala, who led us through the foundation of our city’s first high-tech high school with a heart for relationships with students, industry partners, and families. Her commitment to a healthy school culture and partnerships built a special place of opportunity for young people and made CAST Tech a national model,” said Jeanne Russell, Executive Director of CAST Schools.
The CAST Network and San Antonio ISD will work closely to secure a new principal for CAST Tech, ensuring a seamless transition. Until a replacement is confirmed, Dr. Alcala will remain as principal of CAST Tech.
