Private Foundation Established by SAISD to Carry on Proud Tradition of Academic Excellence in the Community and Fund Innovative Programs

Foundation Receives $350,000 in Seed Money

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Oct. 10, 2007 – The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD), committed to continuing its high standard of academic achievement, has established a private foundation to uphold this tradition for generations to come – the San Antonio Foundation for Excellence in Education.

At a news conference held today at Bonham Elementary to announce its formation, the Foundation received its first gifts. Charles Butt and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions presented a check for $250,000. This was followed by the presentation of $100,000 by AT&T. John T. Montford, Senior Vice President-Western Region Legislative and Regulatory Affairs for AT&T will serve as the Foundation’s Board Chairman.

The funds donated by Charles Butt and H-E-B will go towards the purchase of a residence and property that lies adjacent to Bonham Elementary. The school will convert the residence for use in expanding its educational programs.  The funds donated by AT&T will go towards establishing the Foundation’s Excellence in Education grant program. This program will award a financial grant to any SAISD employee who comes up with an innovative idea towards improving student academic performance and achievement.  

“Bonham, one of San Antonio’s historic schools, has great plans to reinvent itself in exciting ways and we are happy to be part of this new phase in Bonham’s future,” said Charles Butt, H-E-B Chairman and CEO.

The San Antonio Foundation for Excellence in Education is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501 (c) (3) entity that will collect and disburse tax-deductible gifts to fund innovative programs and projects within SAISD to facilitate student achievement, develop and recognize staff and teacher excellence and strengthen partnerships in the community.

“Our mission with the Foundation is to seek new resources of funding for SAISD that will enable the district to extend its education services beyond its normal operating budget, allowing for new pursuits in program development and facility innovation.” said Montford.
SAISD serves approximately 54,000 students and ranks third in student population among the 15 school districts that are entirely or primarily within Bexar County. It is the 13th largest of the 1,057 school districts in Texas.

“SAISD, to continue its mission to instill a sense of academic excellence in its students and staff, needs our support,” said Julian Trevino, Foundation Founding Board
Member. “The future of our community depends upon improving the lives of children
through a quality education and giving teachers and administrators the tools and resources to make this happen.”

The Foundation is governed by an independent board of directors comprised of community, business and education leaders. This group of dedicated volunteers will work to identify private funds and develop processes for their distribution in the form of scholarships and teaching grants. Funds will also be applied towards implementing educational enrichment programs, staff development and recognition programs for teachers, students and volunteers as well as establish a permanent endowment fund.