Balancing education with family responsibilities is a significant undertaking. At Alamo Colleges District, we understand the challenges faced by students who are parents, guardians, or caretakers. Our commitment extends beyond academics; we are dedicated to removing obstacles that might prevent you from achieving your educational and career aspirations. This includes ensuring access to vital resources like health care.
Advocacy and Support Services
Recognizing that student success encompasses more than just classroom learning, Alamo Colleges provides comprehensive support through on-campus Advocacy Centers at each of our five colleges. These centers are designed to be your first point of contact for navigating various life challenges. We have established partnerships with numerous organizations to offer a wide range of services, including job placement assistance, food bank access for food security, professional clothing resources, childcare support, utility bill assistance programs, and mental health counseling services. If you are unsure where to turn for help, the Advocacy Centers are ready to assist.
For immediate assistance, the Student Advocacy Helpline is available at 210-486-1111.
Connect directly with your college’s Advocacy Center through the links below to explore the specific resources available to you:
- Northeast Lakeview College – Nighthawks Nest Advocacy Center
- Northwest Vista College – Student Advocacy Center
- Palo Alto College – SHARE Center
- St. Philip’s College – Safe Space
- San Antonio College – Student Advocacy Center
Family-Friendly Campus Environments
Alamo Colleges strives to create welcoming and inclusive environments for all students, especially those with families. We offer designated spaces and resources designed to support student parents and create a family-friendly atmosphere across our campuses.
Dedicated Lactation Rooms
For breastfeeding students, we provide private and comfortable Lactation Rooms. These dedicated spaces allow you to conveniently and discreetly express breast milk while on campus, supporting your commitment to both your education and your child’s needs.
Convenient Student Parent Parking
To make campus access easier for student parents, designated parking areas are available in close proximity to key buildings and facilities. These Student Parent Parking spots can be found at the following locations:
- Fletcher Administration Building Parking Lot
- Moody Learning Center (MLC) Parking Lot
- Moody Learning Center (MLC) Parking Garage
- Parking Garage #3
- Scobee Loop (between the Nursing and Allied Health Complex (NAHC) and the Early Childhood Center)
Click here to access an interactive campus map detailing building and parking locations.
Building a Community with Peers
You are not alone in navigating college life while raising a family. Many Alamo Colleges students share similar experiences and are balancing their studies with caring for children or dependents. The Student Parent Network, accessible through the AlamoEXPERIENCE portal, offers a platform to connect with fellow student parents. Join this network to share experiences, find support, learn about relevant events, and access valuable resources and service information. To join, simply click the “Join now” button on the portal, sign in with your ACES credentials, and become part of this supportive community.
Affordable and Accessible Childcare Options
Recognizing the critical need for quality childcare, Alamo Colleges operates nationally accredited Child Development Centers at three of our colleges. These centers provide high-quality care and early education for children of students attending any of the Alamo Colleges. Understanding the financial strain childcare can present, we offer payment assistance and subsidized rates to eligible students, making quality childcare more accessible and affordable.
On-Campus Childcare Centers
- Palo Alto College – Ray Ellison Family Center: 210-486-3500, Learn More
- San Antonio College – Early Childhood Center: 210-486-0530, Learn More
- St. Philip’s College – Child Development Center: 210-486-2500, Learn More
Additional Childcare Resources in the Community
For further childcare options and support, explore these external resources:
Free and Low-Cost Health Care Services through Wellness 360
Alamo Colleges is committed to supporting your overall well-being, including your health. Through our partnership with UT Health San Antonio, we offer primary health care services to all enrolled students at no or low cost through Wellness 360 clinics. These clinics are designed to address common health concerns, providing treatment for allergies, colds, flu, minor infections, and other general health issues. Crucially, these services are available regardless of your health insurance status, ensuring that all students have access to essential medical care to stay healthy and focused on their studies. This initiative underscores Alamo Colleges’ dedication to removing financial barriers to health care for our students.
Technology Access for Academic Success
Reliable access to technology is vital for academic success in today’s educational landscape. Alamo Colleges provides technology resources, such as laptop rentals, completely free of charge to currently enrolled students who need computer access. These resources are available on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure equitable access to the tools you need for your coursework.
To inquire about laptop rentals and other technology resources, contact the Information Technology department at your home college during operating hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.).
- SAC: 210-486-0777
- SPC: 210-486-2777
- PAC: 210-486-3777
- NVC: 210-486-4777
- NLC: 210-486-5777
Free Tutoring Services for Academic Excellence
Alamo Colleges is dedicated to providing the academic support you need to excel in your studies. We offer a comprehensive range of FREE tutoring services across various subjects and skill areas. Whether you need help with writing, math, science, or any other course, our tutoring services are designed to help you master the material and achieve your academic goals.
Learn more about Free Tutoring Services
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Student Parents
Financial concerns should not be a barrier to education. The Alamo Colleges Foundation offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically designed to support students who are raising children or other dependents. By completing just one application each academic year, you will be considered for nearly 20 academic scholarship funds, in addition to many other general scholarships for which you may be eligible. We are committed to helping you find the financial resources to make your educational dreams a reality.
Learn more about Scholarships and Financial Aid
Policies Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Students
Alamo Colleges is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for pregnant and parenting students. Our official policies and procedures regarding pregnant and parenting students are detailed in the ACD Policy Manual:
- H.1.2 Civil Rights Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation
- H.1.2.4 Pregnant and Parenting Students Procedure
For specific guidance and support, San Antonio College’s Parenting Student Liaisons, Jillian Denman and Ida Lomas, are available to assist you. You can reach them via email at [email protected].
Community Resources and External Support
Beyond the resources offered directly by Alamo Colleges, numerous community organizations and external programs are available to support students and families in the San Antonio area. These resources can provide additional assistance with various needs, complementing the support services offered by the colleges. We encourage you to explore these community resources to build a comprehensive support network.
