"When you're ready for the free lessons, I've a place for them and students aplenty." It makes sense Kirk would want to earn an income first. Food, basic clothing, and housing were all very beneficial things to have, but disposable funds were invaluable. Especially when one had pets. Or lovers. Or both.

"And you'd even have your choice of students. It doesn't have to be children if you've not got the patience for it. Most adults down here can't read or write or figure either, and it's part of how they've been held down for so long. There are no opportunities to flourish. And magic lessons happening in the same place will hopefully acclimate people to mages being around."

It's all a part of the strategy. Build all of the underprivileged up together, and they can't be easily put back down.