Maher would also require that teachers hired under the proposal live within the city of Cambridge, according to news reports.
School Committee member Joseph G. Grassi said he supports Maher's proposal because lifelong area residents would be more likely to understand the needs of Cambridge youth.
"Those who live in our district and went through our schools understand our methods and our children," Grassi said.
Fantini said that the district must develop a comprehensive plan for attracting talented minority teachers.
A successful recruitment policy must establish teacher apprenticeship programs within the high school, work with area colleges, provide scholarships and guarantee teaching positions for qualified applicants, he said.
"We need to get young people in our school system excited about the teaching profession," Fantini said.
The proposals will be discussed at a 7 p.m. public hearing tonight at Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School.