February 3, 2026
Feb. 6 signing ceremony celebrates high school students committing to a future in education
St. Mary’s University will partner with Northside Independent School District’s CAST Teach High School to celebrate the next generation of teachers with a special signing ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6.
Through the Next Generation Teachers Program, St. Mary’s University offers mentorship, academic support and a clear path to a career in teaching. High school juniors can apply for conditional acceptance to St. Mary’s, and seniors apply for full admission. CAST Teach is San Antonio’s first school dedicated to careers in education.
“The partnership between St. Mary’s University and CAST Teach represents a multi-year pathway that begins in high school, extends through college graduation and culminates in teacher certification,” said Ryan M. Konkright, St. Mary’s Vice President for Enrollment Management. “Together, St. Mary’s and CAST Teach are building a sustainable pipeline from classroom to career by identifying future educators early and supporting them through every step of their professional development.”
Fourteen seniors and 12 juniors from CAST Teach High School will commit to continuing their education at St. Mary’s University. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6, on the St. Mary’s University campus, in the Sarita Kenedy East Law Library’s Law Alumni Room.
Each of the high school students participated in a rigorous interview process with a panel of St. Mary’s Admission staff as well as other St. Mary’s faculty and staff. The students will benefit from their commitment during their high school junior and senior years by gaining access to St. Mary’s classrooms, orientations and more.
Once enrolled as Rattlers, students will receive an annual merit scholarship of $18,000 to $26,000, a book and meal plan stipend, personal tutoring, a professional adviser and dedicated faculty member, professional development and career-readiness support, as well as having their first Teacher Certification Exam fees covered by the University.
“This partnership with St. Mary’s University reflects our shared commitment to growing the next generation of educators right here in San Antonio,” said Dr. John Craft, Superintendent of Northside ISD. “CAST Teach was created to inspire and prepare students for careers in education, and this signing ceremony celebrates their dedication, talent, and passion for serving future learners. We are proud of these students and grateful to St. Mary’s for investing in their success and in the future of our classrooms.”