The San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees voted on Oct. 19 to table a decision on a proposed affordable‑housing community for district employees. The plan, presented by Upward Communities founder and CEO Jason Roberts, would give the district a long‑term lease on a privately funded development designed to keep teachers, administrators and support staff living close to their schools.
Survey Shows Strong Staff Interest
Roberts shared the results of a recent staff survey conducted in early October. Of the 1,250 employees invited, 689 (55%) responded. Among the respondents, 295 said they currently rent a home, and an overwhelming 275 of those indicated they would “yes” or “maybe” to district‑supported housing.
Teachers comprised the largest group of respondents, with 359 teachers (52.1% of the total) participating. The survey also captured input from central‑office staff, operations personnel and employees from all 12 campuses, representing 18 distinct job titles.
How the Partnership Would Work
Upward Communities already operates similar projects for Hays CISD and Lockhart ISD. In each case, the developer provides all capital for construction and then leases the units to the school district, which in turn subleases them to qualified employees. The San Marcos proposal would follow the same model, with a master lease lasting 55 years, allowing the district to restrict occupancy to its staff.
Roberts emphasized that the housing would be a private‑partner solution, not a tax‑payer burden. “We see this housing as an outside private partner,” he said. “We’re trying to make the benefits of being a school district staff employee so great that people seek this profession instead of leaving it.”
Why the Initiative Matters
San Marcos, like many Central Texas communities, is experiencing rapid growth and rising housing costs. Teachers and other district workers have voiced concerns that inflation and higher gas prices are eroding their take‑home pay, making it harder to afford a home near their schools. One DeZavala Elementary teacher explained, “When I bought my house 11 years ago, I was forced to look outside of San Marcos due to the high cost of living. My heart is in San Marcos, and moving back would be a dream come true.”
By offering affordable, district‑specific housing, the board hopes to retain experienced educators, reduce turnover, and attract new talent—outcomes that directly benefit students and the broader community.
Next Steps
The board has not yet approved the master lease. Trustees will continue to review the proposal, consider community feedback, and weigh the financial terms before making a final decision at a future meeting.
Upward Communities recently broke ground on Live Oak Commons, a 362‑home subdivision for Hays CISD, which already has a waiting list of over 600 employees. The San Marcos project would offer one‑ to four‑bedroom units and include amenities designed for families and individuals working in education.
Community Reaction
Local parents and civic leaders have expressed cautious optimism, noting that stable housing for teachers can strengthen school performance and neighborhood cohesion. Critics, primarily from outside the education sector, have raised typical concerns about long‑term lease commitments, but the district’s legal counsel has confirmed that the agreement would protect the district’s financial interests.
As the board deliberates, San Marcos residents can expect further updates through board meetings and public comment periods.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
