Price Elementary School Named ‘School of Promise’ by National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

San Antonio, Texas (April 30, 2026) - The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) recognized Price Elementary School in South San Antonio Independent School District, Texas, today in a schoolwide assembly as a 2026 ‘School of Promise’ for its continued efforts to strengthen instructional practices and support student success. Price Elementary is one of only two schools in the country to receive the award this year, which includes a $5,000 prize. School leaders can use the award’s financial prize as they choose to continue supporting their teachers and students to thrive. 

“Congratulations to Principal Eric Boysen, Superintendent Dr. Saul Hinojosa, and the staff of Price Elementary School on receiving the School of Promise Award,” said NIET Founder Lowell Milken. “Their commitment to outstanding instruction, collaboration, and a nurturing environment has increased student growth and closed achievement gaps. We look forward to Price Elementary’s continued success in preparing students for bright futures.”

Price Elementary School received the ‘School of Promise’ award for the staff’s efforts to strengthen classroom teaching and learning. These efforts have resulted in a remarkable 15 point increase in math and a 17 point increase in English language arts/reading from 2023 to 2025. The school experienced a 14 point increase across all subject areas in the same time period, compared to the statewide average that decreased by one point. Price Elementary has increased their letter grade to achieve a “B” for the past two years. 

“We know that increases in student achievement are a direct result of strengthening classroom instruction,” said NIET Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua Barnett. “Price Elementary School has transformed instruction so that every student receives high-quality support that is tailored to their needs. I am excited to see Principal Eric Boysen and his team continue setting a strong foundation for teachers and students to thrive.”

About Price Elementary School

Price Elementary School, located in San Antonio, educates students ranging from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade. Approximately 400 students attend the school, 95% of whom qualify for free/reduced-price lunch. In partnership with NIET, Price Elementary implements the TAP System to provide regular professional learning focused on the individual needs of teachers and students. The school, led by Principal Eric Boysen, has adopted systems that maximize the talents of teacher leaders and school leaders to drive student growth. As a result, educators and students now benefit from a culture of collaboration and reflection.

“Receiving the NIET School of Promise award is a proud reflection of the transformation taking place at Price Elementary,” said Boysen. “Through the support of NIET, our campus has built a culture of strong instruction, collaboration, and high expectations where everyone works together for our students' success and shares a clear vision of effective, rigorous instruction. NIET has empowered our staff to turn excellence into everyday practice, creating lasting success for our entire school community.”

For images of Price Elementary School and more information about the School of Promise award, visit the NIET newsroom. 

About NIET

The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) is a national nonprofit based in Arizona that serves states and districts nationwide. For 25 years, NIET has partnered with schools, districts, states, and universities to build educator excellence and give all students the opportunity for success. NIET’s initiatives, including the TAP System, teacher and leader development, school improvement, rubric and observation systems, and educator preparation, have impacted more than 350,000 educators and 3.5 million students across the U.S.