About | Northside Independent School District

Campus Information

Year Open: 1997

Bond Year: 1992

School Mascot: Mustangs

School colors: Reflex Blue, Silver

Mission Statement:
Provide all students with a relevant and rigorous learning experience to cultivate a robust STEM environment.

Vision: SEA students explore their STEM interests, discover their passions, and graduate innovators and leaders in society.

District handbook

School handbook

A portrait of Principal Crystal Mitchell

Crystal Mitchell - Principal

My name is Crystal Mitchell and I am the proud principal of the John Jay Science & Engineering Academy (SEA). Ever since I can remember, I have always been passionate about STEM. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Texas State and my Masters of Education from the University of Texas at Austin. In 2003, I began my career as a high school science teacher in Austin, Texas. Since then, I have served as an administrator at the middle school, high school, central office, and collegiate settings. From 2016-2019, I had the honor of serving as the Vice Principal of the Science & Engineering Academy. I am grateful that I had the opportunity last year to come back home and serve as the Principal of this amazing school. My vision for our SEA students is that every student will explore their STEM interests, discover their passions, and graduate innovators and leaders in society. This year, our school will celebrate our 25th Anniversary. I look forward to reconnecting with our SEA Alumni, strengthening our STEM pipeline, forming new partnerships within our community, and continuing our school’s tradition of excellence.

A portrait of Associate Principal Jean Karst

Mrs. Jean M. Karst - Associate Principal

The Associate Principal also serves as the Campus Behavior Coordinator. They can be reached by email at jean.karst@nisd.net or by phone at 210-397-2846.

Mrs. Jean Karst is a highly qualified professional with a strong academic background in the fields of biology, environmental science, and education. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA). Following her undergraduate studies, Mrs. Karst gained valuable experience as a research scientist at a local laboratory. While continuing her professional commitments, she simultaneously pursued a Master's degree in Environmental Science at UTSA, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and specialization in her chosen field.

She enrolled at Our Lady of the Lake University to obtain a Master's degree in Education, demonstrating her commitment to fostering a positive and influential impact on the academic development of students. Since venturing into the realm of education, Mrs. Karst has steadfastly devoted herself to the betterment of students and the enhancement of STEM learning experiences. Her unwavering commitment to education is reflected in her continuous pursuit of knowledge and dedication to shaping the minds of future generations, solidifying her position as a respected and accomplished professional in the field.

Barbra Bloomingdale

Programs Coordinator

I am a veteran educator starting my 30th year in public schools. I started as an English teacher at Clark High School and later became the department coordinator at Marshall High School. In 2016, I moved to Central Office and served as a district instructional coach. In 2022, I helped open CAST Teach High School, the magnet school at Stevens, and fell in love with the magnet community. I have worked with a diverse range of teens, including AP and Dual Credit students from across Northside. I am a proud Northside graduate (Marshall HS, Class of '91) and have two children in NISD, including an incoming freshman at Construction Careers.
I'm thrilled to join the SEA leadership team and to support the innovative programs here. I'm looking forward to getting to know our students and their families.