Plan for CMS teacher housing includes four ‘villages,’ aid for renting and buying

Charlotte, NC – June 5, 2024

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has revealed a comprehensive plan to address the housing challenges faced by its teachers. The initiative, which includes the construction of four “Teacher Villages” and assistance for renting and buying homes, aims to make living and working in Charlotte more affordable for educators.

Four Teacher Villages

The plan entails the development of four Teacher Village affordable housing complexes, with an estimated cost ranging from $120 million to $160 million. These villages are envisioned as dedicated living spaces for teachers, offering them affordable housing options within the city.

Partnership for Affordable Housing

To bring this ambitious plan to fruition, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is seeking a partnership with private investors, developers, landlords, the school district, the county, and the city of Charlotte. The collaboration aims to secure funding, resources, and support to create sustainable housing solutions for teachers.

Support for Renting and Buying

In addition to constructing the Teacher Villages, the program will provide subsidies for renters and homebuyers among the teaching staff. This assistance is designed to bridge the gap between teacher salaries and rising housing costs in the Charlotte-Metro region, making it more feasible for educators to reside in the area.

Implementation Timeline

Superintendent Crystal Hill and CMS officials have outlined a timeline for the project, with the first Teacher Village expected to open in 2027. The initial phase will feature 100 affordable units tailored to teachers, offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations at rates suitable for individuals earning 60% to 100% of the area’s median income.

City Council Support

Charlotte City Council has shown interest in supporting the CMS initiative, viewing it as a potential model for addressing housing challenges faced by government employees. The collaborative effort aims to create a sustainable housing ecosystem that benefits educators and other public servants.

Scalable Solutions

CMS Board Chair Stephanie Sneed emphasized the pilot nature of the first Teacher Village, indicating that the project will serve as a testing ground for scalable solutions. The ultimate goal is to address the housing needs of all 9,000 teachers within the district, ensuring access to affordable and stable living arrangements.

Empowering Educators

By providing housing support for teachers, CMS aims to empower educators to focus on their professional responsibilities without the burden of high housing costs. The program seeks to enhance teacher retention, promote well-being, and create a supportive environment for educational excellence.