|
The early childhood education workforce has historically been undervalued, and is still recovering from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. But we know we can’t meet our goals and expand access to preschool without enough skilled and fairly compensated teachers!
Paying teachers a living wage is one key to ensuring that ECE is a viable field, and we’re making sure to do that. Assistants in PFA programs make at least $4.46 more per hour than the median wage for a child care worker in Oregon, and the goal salary for a teacher with a BA is equivalent to a kindergarten teacher.
PFA’s other workforce development strategies aim to address staffing shortages in early learning by focusing on both recruitment of new educators and retention of teachers once they enter the field.
To bring in new educators, we’re focused on culturally relevant outreach strategies to engage diverse communities, and are partnering with high schools and community colleges to strengthen career pathways into early childhood education. We’re also providing financial support, such as scholarships, cohort training, and paid internships, to reduce the cost of education and training for those who are interested in pursuing this career path.
To retain current educators, we offer coaching, training, and business support to preschool providers, and PFA pilot sites have access to a substitute pool to provide additional support to classrooms. These efforts are aimed at improving working conditions and increasing staff retention in PFA programs.
By investing in the early childhood education workforce, PFA is helping to build a strong foundation for our children's future. We believe that all children deserve access to high-quality preschool, and we are committed to making that a reality!
| 
