Northside Independent School District is set to launch a new sports medicine magnet program at Stinson Middle School in San Antonio. Starting on August 10, the program will welcome its inaugural class of about 100 sixth-grade students. This initiative aims to provide students with an early introduction to careers in sports medicine, such as physical therapy and athletic training.
Strategic Location and Industry Demand
The decision to host the magnet program at Stinson Middle School was strategic, according to Jeannette Rainey, the school’s magnet coordinator. The school is conveniently located less than a mile from the Northside Sports Gym, the Dub Farris Athletic Complex, and the NISD Natatorium. This proximity offers students unique opportunities to engage with local sports facilities and professionals.
During a recent gathering at the Northside Sports Gym, future Stinson students met with sports medicine professionals, including Matthew Coston and Danielle C. Aguilar. Both shared insights into their careers and the field of sports medicine, emphasizing the rewarding nature of helping athletes return to their passions.
Curriculum and Facilities
The magnet program will feature a specialized curriculum that integrates sports medicine concepts into traditional subjects. Sixth graders will explore exercise science in their science classes and engage in language arts courses focused on resilience and perseverance. Additionally, students will participate in a career investigations course that includes lab-based and project-based learning.
Stinson Middle School is also constructing a new physical therapy room to support the program. By eighth grade, students will have the opportunity to earn a CPR certification and potentially gain high school credits.
Meeting Community and Industry Needs
The introduction of the sports medicine magnet aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals in San Antonio. The city is experiencing expansion in hospital systems, increasing the need for skilled workers across various specialties. Texas is a leading employer of athletic trainers and physical therapists, further highlighting the relevance of this program.
Magnet programs like the one at Stinson are open-enrollment, allowing students from outside the district to apply. This approach not only attracts families but also prepares students for future careers by providing early exposure to industry-specific skills and knowledge.
As the deadline to apply approaches, students like Alexis Green, an aspiring athlete, are eager to begin their journey in sports medicine. Inspired by watching athletic trainers at Spurs games, Green is excited to learn more about the field and potentially work on the sidelines of major sporting events.
Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.
