HPS Celebrates Three Years of Teachers Live Here
Since January 2023, 24 HPS Teachers have been awarded more than $573k toward the costs of purchasing a home in or near the district.
“The Teachers Live Here program was an incredible support throughout my home-buying process, and I am truly grateful for Hollands' investment in teachers. Living closer to my school has helped me feel more connected to my students, their families, and the community I serve.”
-Lilian Bol, the very first recipient of a Teachers Live Here grant.
Holland Public Schools is celebrating the third anniversary of Teachers Live Here. The program was launched in 2023 as a way to attract and retain the very best teachers to HPS by offering down payment assistance to teachers purchasing a home in or near the school district.
- Since launching Teachers Live Here, 24 Holland Public Schools teachers have been awarded $573,700!
When Teachers Live Here launched, teachers were offered $25,000 dollars in down payment assistance toward the purchase of a home. In exchange, teachers receiving the grant agree to stay in the home and to be employed by the district for at least 5 additional years. Since 2023, the amount of the grant has increased with inflation to $27,300. Teachers who buy a home within the school district boundaries also now qualify for an additional $2,500 for closing costs.
“By helping first-time homebuyers bridge the gap to homeownership, Teachers Live Here ensures that educators can afford to live in the community where they teach. Since its inception three years ago, the program has fundamentally transformed the lives of educators at Holland Public Schools.
-Nick Cassidy, HPS Superintendent
Teachers Live Here is funded by an anonymous family in the City of Holland who were looking for a unique way to help Holland Public Schools attract and retain exceptional educators to the district. The grants are administered through the Holland Educational Foundation.
“The impact of Teachers Live Here extends beyond housing; this spark of philanthropy has energized the HEF board and our donor community, inspiring a renewed mission to expand funding and support for Holland Public Schools' educators and students alike.”
-Kate Bolt, Executive Director of Holland Educational Foundation
Each academic year (from July 1- June 30) ten (10) Teachers Live Here grants can be awarded. The grant program is fully-funded for through 2030. HPS teachers can apply, and prospective teachers can get details about the program, at www.hollandpublicschools.org/teacherslivehere.