In 2019, a group of San Antonio parents embarked on a six-month fellowship to explore the needs within the education system through a parent-centered lens. Through block walking, self-guided community meetings, and a powerful vision for better school opportunities for families across San Antonio, Texas, a group of leaders was selected to establish an organization that would truly represent the voices and needs of local parents. After several focus groups and community meetings, a foundational guide was developed to help all families become savvy consumers of education.

Although MindShiftED Parent Institute (MSED) became an independent nonprofit organization in 2022, we have been actively engaging and organizing parents for over three years. During this time, we’ve gained valuable insight into the demographics and pressing needs of our growing base. We’ve learned that 75% of our active parents and caregivers are Spanish-speaking only, and 50% have children with disabilities. The needs, values, and interests of our families shape our programming and educational priorities. It became clear early on that MSED must address the barriers preventing parents from fully participating in their children’s education and engaging with decision-makers in the education system. Our families face both language barriers and challenges in accessing the high-quality special education services their children are entitled to and deserve.

MindShiftED is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of the most vulnerable and underserved children residing in San Antonio neighborhoods.

We believe that every child in San Antonio will have a high-quality education that is inclusive, equitable and meets their unique needs and helps them achieve their highest potential.

Our mission is to elevate educational outcomes by empowering and organizing guardians of students with special needs, regardless of diagnosis or educational labels and despite any language barriers.

We empower families to become strong advocates for their child(ren)’s education by providing the tools, knowledge, and skills they need to succeed.