Investing in Ohio’s Early Childhood Workforce: A Call to Action for Equity and Opportunity
- Groundwork Ohio
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
By Groundwork Ohio Early Childhood Fellows:
Keshia McCahill
Ohio’s early childhood education system is at a critical crossroads. Today, our state’s youngest learners—and those who care for them—face a looming crisis. Without immediate and meaningful investment in Ohio’s early childhood education workforce, we risk compromising the quality, accessibility, and equity of care for those who need it most.
A Workforce in Crisis
Across Central and Northeast Ohio, nearly 64% of centers report an immediate need to hire, often requiring multiple hires just to keep classrooms open. In Central Ohio alone, the gap is staggering: nearly 1,500 center staff and over 130 family child care providers are needed merely to maintain existing services. This translates to reduced enrollment, strained families, and lost opportunities for early learning during the most critical years of brain development.
The Cost of Caregiving—and Being Undervalued
Despite the indispensable nature of their work, early educators are among the lowest-paid professionals in our economy. A wage increase of just $1.50 to $5.00 an hour could make the difference between retention and resignation. Current compensation structures force many providers — many of whom are deeply dedicated to the children and families they serve, often struggle to afford their own basic needs. Without systemic intervention, we risk burning out a workforce that is already stretched thin.
The Emotional Toll
The caregiving workforce is being asked to do more with less: more responsibilities, longer hours, and increased demands, all with minimal support. Burnout and turnover are rampant. Many family child care providers operate alone and lack access to the professional development, wellness resources, and mental health support they need to thrive. When caregivers suffer, children suffer too.
Hope in Innovation – Learning from Other States
We don’t have to reinvent the wheel—other states are already leading with innovative, effective solutions:
Washington, D.C. launched a Pay Equity Fund aligning childcare salaries with those of public school teachers.
Mississippi provides an annual $2,000 stipend for teachers in high-need areas.
Oklahoma created the Happy Teacher Wellness Intervention, addressing the well-being of early childhood staff through physical, mental, and professional support.
Kentucky offers free childcare for all childcare workers working 20+ hours a week.
A United Call for Action – What Can Ohio Do?
Ohio’s legislators have the power—and the responsibility—to lead boldly. Key actions include:
Raise compensation to reflect the essential role of early educators.
Expand access to ongoing training, coaching, and hands-on professional development.
Prioritize mental health and wellness with targeted supports for caregivers.
Elevate the profession through recognition, respect, and career advancement pathways.
Investing in the early childhood workforce is not simply a budget decision—it’s a declaration of our values. It’s about equity, prosperity, and ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, enters kindergarten ready to thrive.
Together, we can build a stronger Ohio—starting with the people who build our children.
