Phoenix teams up with school district to help build affordable housing [Video]

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The city of Phoenix has a new program that aims to address two of Arizona’s biggest problems: underfunded public schools and a lack of affordable housing.

Families are struggling to find an affordable place to live, which directly impacts local school districts, especially those in lower-income communities.

Cecilia Maes is superintendent of the Alhambra Elementary School District in Phoenix, which has seen enrollment drop more than 30% over the past 10 years.

“It becomes very difficult when our students are stressing about making sure they have a roof over their head,” said Maes. “Many families have come to us for help because their rent has increased significantly and are unable to afford it any more.”

The Alhambra School District has decided to do something bold in an effort to attract more students while helping struggling families.

The district is teaming up with the city of Phoenix to sell a 3-acre plot of land it doesn’t use anymore.

The property …