Southeast San Antonio schools are set to receive a significant boost in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education, thanks to a $6.5 million grant from Toyota. The automaker, which operates a major assembly plant in the city’s South Side, announced the funding on Wednesday. The grant will support East Central Independent School District (ECISD) over the next five years, providing resources to enhance STEM programs for students and teachers.
The funding will be used to introduce innovative tools and programs aimed at building foundational skills, boosting confidence, and creating personalized learning pathways for students and staff. Key initiatives include professional development for teachers, hands-on learning opportunities for students, the creation of new district-wide STEM programs, and the establishment of a Family Resource Center at Pecan Valley STEM Academy. The center will focus on addressing basic needs and increasing family involvement in education.
“Toyota’s generous donation is truly inspiring and will motivate our students to reach their full potential,” said ECISD Superintendent Roland Toscano in a statement. “This partnership allows us to tailor learning experiences that challenge students to grow both academically and personally, preparing them for success in and out of the classroom.”
San Antonio is the latest city to benefit from Toyota’s Driving Possibilities program, which aims to foster interest and excitement in STEM fields. The initiative has previously supported communities in Plano, Texas; Blue Springs, Mississippi; Alpharetta, Georgia; Greensboro, North Carolina; and Chandler, Arizona. Since its launch in 2022, San Antonio becomes the tenth city to receive funding through the program.
The grant was awarded after ECISD underwent a competitive selection process. “This is one of the largest grants the district has ever received, and we are deeply grateful to the Toyota Foundation of America for their generosity,” said Brandon Oliver, ECISD’s director of marketing and communications.
The investment comes at a critical time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM-related jobs in the U.S. are projected to grow by 10.4% over the next decade, rising from 10.7 million in 2023 to over 11.8 million by 2033. Toyota’s grant aims to equip ECISD students with the skills needed to thrive in these high-demand fields, ensuring they are prepared for future opportunities in STEM careers.
This partnership between Toyota and ECISD highlights the automaker’s commitment to education and community development, while also addressing the growing need for STEM talent in the workforce.
