Ohio Must Prioritize Early Educator Compensation

By Jacob Oates, Director of Programming and Impact 

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At Groundwork Ohio, we know that early educators are the backbone of Ohio’s child care system, but too many struggle with low wages and few benefits. Early childhood educators play a vital role in nurturing our youngest learners and enabling parents to work; however, they are severely underpaid. With turnover rates between 15–25%, low wages are driving instability in child care. How does this impact the economy and workforce? A staggering $122  billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue each year, according to the PN3 Policy Center.

To address this crisis, several states are piloting innovative compensation strategies. The latest brief from the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center makes it clear: States across the country are taking action to strengthen this workforce, and Ohio should be next. 

The brief highlights four proven strategies

1. Wage supplements to raise pay. 

2. Bonuses and stipends to reward and retain staff. 

3. Targeted tax credits to ease financial strain. 

4. Expanded benefits like health care and retirement. 

These approaches benefit more than just educators, as they positively impact families, children, and Ohio’s economy by creating a more stable and high-quality child care system. When educators are paid fairly and have access to benefits, child care providers can retain qualified staff, reduce turnover, and offer more consistent and nurturing environments for young children. Families gain access to reliable care which allows parents to stay in the workforce and contribute to Ohio’s economy. Stronger early learning settings also lay the foundation for school readiness, improved long-term academic outcomes, and better health, strengthening Ohio’s future workforce and communities. Investing in early educator compensation is an investment in the success and stability of our state.

The State of Early Childhood Educators in Ohio 

According to a January 2024 National Association for the Education of Young Children survey of over 10,000 early childhood educators nationwide, including nearly 440 from Ohio, many educators are feeling the strain as federal relief funding expires. Ohio’s results paint a bleak picture: 

• 54% of local child care programs closed at least one location last year—outpacing openings (27%).

• 46% of educators report increased burnout, with 33% saying their economic situation is worse now compared to a year ago.

• 58% of programs face staffing shortages, 62% are under-enrolled, and over half recently increased tuition just to stay afloat.

• “I don’t know how much longer I can continue to keep up with the negative factors that come with this job. Especially when compensation stays the same.”

As we advocate for policies that build a brighter future for Ohio’s youngest children, investing in early educator compensation must be at the top of the list. 

Ohio’s kids and workforce can’t wait. 

Read the full PN3 Policy Center brief here.