Another Bold Education Move from NYC

Posted by Sheila Redick on April 19, 2006

In an effort to bring more qualified math, science and special education teachers to New York City's toughest schools, Mayor Michael Bloomberg's administration has developed one of the most aggressive housing subsidy programs for teachers in the nation, according to today's New York Times.  Teachers with at least two years experience can receive up to $14,600 in aid to purchase and pay for housing in the city if they agree to work in one of the city's school for three years. They can receive an upfront payment of $5,000 for moving and closing costs along with $400 per month for two years.

"It has a major impact as far as really sending a signal to those teachers that we want you and will be really creative in attracting you here," said Deputy Mayor Dennis Walcott, the mayor's top education aide at City Hall.

 And even the teacher's union is on board with the deal.

Randi Weingarten, the president of the teachers' union, the United Federation of Teachers, said that her union had growing concerns that the state might force the transfer of veteran teachers into struggling schools if steps were not taken to create incentives and get volunteers.

"We solved the problem in probably one of the most innovative ways we could," she said. "Affordable housing is really important to recruit and retain teachers."

Read the full article here.