Teacher Appreciation Week: It’s Time to Truly Value Early Childhood Educators

By Jacob Oates, Program Manager

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As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to shine a spotlight on some of the most dedicated and often overlooked educators in our state: Ohio’s early childhood professionals. These individuals play a pivotal role in the early stages of our young children’s lives.

Speaking from my own experience, working as an early childhood teacher has been one of the most fun and rewarding jobs I’ve ever had. There's nothing like watching a child discover something new for the first time or seeing their eyes light up when they feel proud of themselves. The joy, laughter, and creativity make it all incredibly fulfilling. But even with all that joy, it's hard to ignore the financial strain. Despite pouring my heart into the classroom every day, it was a struggle to cover basic expenses, plan for the future, or afford unexpected costs. It’s disheartening to know that so many others in this profession who play such a vital role in children’s lives are forced to make sacrifices just to stay afloat.

Despite the joy and fondness built into this critical role, far too many early educators are struggling to remain in the profession they love. Nearly one in five left the field last year, and programs across Ohio are facing severe staffing shortages. This is leading to tough choices such as turning families away or raising tuition just to stay afloat. Many of these educators, the vast majority of whom are women, work full-time and still rely on public assistance to meet basic needs.

This week we want recognize their unwavering commitment and call for greater support for the people who care for and teach Ohio’s youngest learners.

Ninety-five percent of Ohio’s early childhood educators are women. These are the same women holding up our economy by making it possible for others to work. And they are often doing it for poverty-level wages, with little job security and few benefits. Meanwhile, mothers across the state, especially those leading households on their own, are being pushed out of the workforce because affordable, quality child care simply isn’t available.

This is not just an education issue. It’s not just a child care issue. It is a women’s issue.

So, this Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s do more than say thank you. Let’s stand together in support.

We are inviting you to join women and allies from across Ohio in signing on to a letter urging the Ohio General Assembly to fully invest in child care and support the Child Tax Credit proposals in Governor DeWine’s executive budget. Signing the letter is a simple but powerful way to show that we recognize the value of this workforce, and that we’re ready to fight for the respect, wages, and resources they deserve.

When we invest in child care, we invest in women. When we support early educators, we support our entire economy. And when we say we appreciate teachers, let’s make sure we show it.

Signing on is quick and easy! Your support is critical in amplifying the voices of women and families across the state.

SIGN ON NOW