A team from Economic & Planning Systems presented preliminary findings from a districtwide staff housing survey to the Roaring Fork School District Board of Education during a work session Wednesday afternoon.

The survey found that while most staff reported feeling secure in their current housing, many also said they would seriously consider leaving the area if they could not secure stable housing in the future.

The EPS team noted that while current living situations may be adequate for now, many respondents felt that long-term options — particularly homeownership — remain out of reach. Survey participants prioritized the potential to purchase a home, location, proximity to work and outdoor spaces, and price. Respondents ranked home size noticeably lower on the list.

Nearly 600 district employees participated in the survey, including 65% certified staff and 35% classified staff. The board noted the results were informative but at times difficult to interpret due to limited context.

EPS plans to release a full report in June that will include more detailed breakdowns of responses, such as how long participants have worked for the district and where they live and work. The report will also explore staff demographics, wages, primary home languages, and other personal factors.

“I think it would help to segregate the information as much as possible,” board member Jasmin Ramirez said during the session. “If you have information on demographics, on how many years they’ve been with the district, or where they currently live, I think that would be really helpful for us.”

EPS representatives agreed and said the final report will include recommendations and a more granular look at the data.

The survey also included an open-response section where staff could suggest ideas to the board. Many wrote that improved affordability and accessibility would ease housing concerns. One proposed strategy discussed in the presentation was offering housing stipends rather than building new housing units, as a way to offset rising costs.

Board member Kenny Teitler asked the EPS team to provide recommendations on whether a stipend program would be financially feasible for the district.

“Is the final report going to give suggestions depending on how much money the district will have to put toward this?” Teitler asked.

The EPS team confirmed they would incorporate the board’s feedback into the final report, which is expected to be presented in June before the board adjourns for the summer.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for May 14 at the district office, 400 Sopris Ave. in Carbondale.