Teach Here, Thrive Here:

 

Teacher Support Plan

 

Every classroom in San Antonio’s District 6 deserves the strongest possible partnership between our public schools and the City. By building clear communication channels, shared safety strategies, and collaborative resource planning, we equip teachers, students, and families with the tools they need to be successful despite potential attacks from the State and Federal governments.

 

Policy Solutions

 

Strengthening School-City Collaboration

 

Establish a dedicated City Education Liaison to serve as a bridge between San Antonio’s Public Schools, and city government—ensuring that student, family, and educator needs are met with coordinated action.

In partnership with school districts conduct campus-by-campus risk assessments to identify safety and support needs unique to each school site.

In partnership with public school districts work to maintain and regularly update Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) to enhance emergency preparedness for every school.

Launch a Safe School Routes Initiative focused on closing sidewalk gaps, improving lighting, and ensuring full crossing guard coverage near school zones.

 

Expanding Career Development Grants

 

Eliminate income restrictions for the Ready to Work Certification Grant for certified teachers living and working in San Antonio.

Broaden the scope of grant eligibility to include certifications in coaching, mentoring, ESL, and special education.

 

Facilitating Teacher Homeownership

 

Reintroduce the Teacher Homeownership Grant Program, offering no-interest loans to cover down payments and closing costs for public school educators.

This program helps reduce turnover by making it easier for teachers to plant long-term roots in the communities they serve.

 

Launching a Back-to-School Supply Fund

 

Create a city-funded Back-to-School Grant to help educators in underserved schools offset classroom supply costs.

With teachers spending an average of $865 annually on supplies, this grant will help close equity gaps and ensure student success from the start of the school year.

 

Prioritizing Educator Wellness

 

Invest in school staff mental health initiatives by expanding partnerships with local health providers for accessible, trauma-informed care.

Explore the creation of an Educator Wellness Task Force to support burnout prevention and advocate for mental health resources across campuses.

 

 

This plan is grounded in the belief that when we invest in our public school educators, we invest in the long-term success of our city. By addressing the financial, professional, and emotional challenges teachers face, we can create a stronger, more resilient public school system—where every student has the chance to thrive and every teacher has the support to stay.