Free Housing Program Boosts Teacher Retention in Denver Schools

The Denver Public Schools Foundation’s innovative Free Educator Housing Program has successfully increased teacher retention rates among participating educators. According to a survey conducted by the Foundation, an impressive 93% of the educators who benefited from the program have opted to remain with Denver Public Schools (DPS). This initiative, which began as a pilot program, provided free housing for 15 educators for one year, helping to address the ongoing teacher shortage, particularly in challenging roles such as special education and English as a second language.

Sara Hazel, President and CEO of the Denver Public Schools Foundation, emphasized the significance of these findings. “Ninety-three percent of the DPS educators who received the housing have chosen to stay within the district,” Hazel stated. “This is particularly important because these were early career teachers, and research shows that when teachers remain in the profession through their first three years, they are more likely to stay for five years or longer. This stability is crucial for student success.”

In addition to the high retention rates, the Foundation’s survey revealed that 100% of participants reported being able to save money and experienced reduced stress levels. These outcomes highlight the positive impact of affordable housing on educators’ well-being and job satisfaction.

The Foundation aims to expand this program in the future, seeking partnerships with other developers and property management companies. Hazel expressed a desire for the initiative to inspire further investment in community-focused projects. “We want our teachers to create deep roots in Denver and stay here,” she remarked.

This program underscores the importance of affordable housing for educators and demonstrates how innovative philanthropy can create tangible benefits for both teachers and students. By supporting teacher retention, the initiative ultimately contributes to a more stable learning environment, fostering greater success for students across the district.

As the Denver Public Schools Foundation continues its efforts, the positive feedback from participants and the resulting retention statistics may serve as a model for other school districts facing similar challenges.