A one-of-a-kind middle school just opened in Miami, and it doubles as affordable housing for teachers and school staff. Southside Preparatory Academy welcomed students this week in the neighborhood of Brickell. 

According to CBS News, the school can hold up to 610 students and was years in the making. The outlet spoke with students like Alexander Curkoski, who shared: “I think it's great, the classrooms of colors. It's very vibrant,” he said.

Above the classrooms are 10 one-bedroom studio apartments for teachers and staff. The idea is to help educators live closer to where they work, something that’s become a major challenge as Miami’s cost of living continues to rise.

“Now it's live, play, and learn because there is an educational component. It's very unique. It's the first of it in the state. It's incredible,” said Raul Perez, Miami-Dade County commissioner of facilities, to CBS.

Commissioner Eileen Higgins echoed the excitement, calling the project a win-win for the neighborhood. “We have a facility now where neighbors can live affordably, kids can go to school, and teachers can live in workforce housing in the neighborhood they serve.” 

According to CBS, applications for the apartments open in mid-November 2025 and will be handled by Miami-Dade Public Housing. Because demand is expected to be high, officials say a lottery system will likely be used. 

Southside Preparatory Academy is now one of the first schools of its kind in Florida, merging education and housing to keep teachers rooted in the communities they serve.