Across the Bay Area and many parts of the country, teachers are finding it increasingly difficult to live in the communities where they work. Rising housing costs, particularly in desirable locations like San Mateo County, are pushing educators further away from schools, creating longer commutes and reducing their quality of life. This housing crisis has a direct impact on teacher retention and student outcomes. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted solution, including building more affordable homes and providing housing at the bottom of the housing ladder, which refers to entry-level homes that meet the needs of low- and middle-income earners, like teachers.
The Impact of Housing Costs on Teacher Retention
Teacher retention is one of the most pressing issues facing school districts today. According to recent studies, many teachers leave the profession within their first five years, and one of the primary reasons is financial stress, exacerbated by the high cost of housing. In San Mateo County, it’s estimated that nearly 84% of educators would qualify for Below Market Rate (BMR) housing if such options were available. When teachers can’t afford to live near their workplace, they often take on second jobs, endure long commutes, or relocate to more affordable areas, leading to high turnover rates.
High turnover has a profound impact on schools. Not only is it expensive and time-consuming to recruit and train new teachers, but it also disrupts the consistency and stability that students need to thrive. Students benefit from long-term relationships with their teachers, and when teachers are forced to leave due to housing pressures, it creates gaps in instruction and undermines school culture.
Affordable Teacher Housing as a Retention Tool with Measure T in San Mateo
Building affordable homes is a key strategy to retain teachers. When teachers are able to live in the same community where they work, they are more likely to stay in their jobs long-term. Affordable housing options, such as BMR units, can provide teachers with stability and a sense of belonging. This reduces financial stress, allows them to focus on their profession, and enables them to build stronger relationships with their students, parents, and colleagues.
Several initiatives are already underway to address this issue. In San Mateo and other areas, efforts to develop teacher-specific housing projects are gaining momentum. By offering housing incentives or creating affordable housing units reserved specifically for educators, school districts can make teaching a more sustainable and attractive career. These initiatives are critical in ensuring that our teachers remain part of the communities they serve.
Homes at the Bottom of the Housing Ladder
Another crucial piece of the puzzle is building homes at the bottom of the housing ladder. These entry-level homes, often smaller and more affordable, provide an accessible option for teachers who may not qualify for BMR housing but still struggle with the high cost of living. By focusing on these homes, cities can support a broader range of educators and other essential workers who are vital to the community’s fabric.
When teachers have access to affordable housing, they are more likely to remain in their positions, leading to improved student outcomes. Research shows that teacher retention has a direct correlation with student achievement. Consistency in the classroom allows students to build strong relationships with their educators, which fosters a more stable learning environment. Moreover, when teachers are less stressed about their living situations, they can devote more energy and creativity to their work, leading to better educational experiences for their students.
The teacher housing crisis is a complex issue that affects not only educators but also the communities they serve. Building more affordable homes and providing entry-level housing can help retain teachers, improve student outcomes, and create a more resilient community. By creating more affordable homes with Measure T than under current zoning, San Mateo can provide additional teacher housing so our educators are able to live and work in the community they help shape.
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