SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio property owner has launched a pilot program that offers educators a year of rent-free housing in exchange for providing academic support to students and families living in local apartment communities.
The Educator-in-Residence program, hosted by American Landmark, is available at three apartment complexes: The Lynx, The Legend and Kinsey Park.
Organizers said the communities are located in ZIP codes where student performance on state assessments has averaged below a C grade. The program aims to make tutoring and mentoring more accessible by bringing educational services directly to residents.
“In an effort to give back to our community, we want to make it to where parents and students don’t have to worry about finding a ride,” program coordinator Jessica McMillan said. “It’s right here in their home.”
In exchange for one year of rent, valued at about $12,000, participating educators agree to provide at least three hours a week of tutoring, mentoring or classes based on their expertise. The apartment communities provide the space and supplies.
Educator Uli Kolbe, who has 30 years of teaching experience, said he plans to tutor students from elementary through high school.
“It’s not about me and how it’s going to help me,” Kolbe said. “The main thing for me here is to help the residents and help the community, and that is something I consider very rewarding as an educator.”
Kolbe said he believes the initiative could be adopted in other communities across the country.
American Landmark said it is still seeking educators to participate at two of the three apartment complexes.