‘We need the funding to be able to do the work': DC early childcare providers, advocates push for fully funded pay equity for teachers
WASHINGTON () — Several childcare center providers, educators and families across the District took over Freedom Plaza for National Day Without Childcare, a nationwide action highlighting the urgent need for stronger investment in early childhood education.
Advocates on Monday said they want D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser to uphold and expand funding for the Pay Equity Fund, a program that helps close the wage gap between early childhood educators and their K-12 counterparts.
'If we lose the workforce, we lose the quality that goes along with that,' said Jamal Berry, President and CEO of Educare Washington, D.C.
He said that while his center fundraises to help close salary gaps, the Pay Equity Fund has made a significant difference.
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'There's a clear difference between what local and federal funding pays and what we know teachers deserve,' Berry explained. 'The Pay Equity Fund helped us bridge that gap. We've been able to take a lead teacher with a master's degree from around $50,000 up to $75,000.'
Although the fund was spared from proposed cuts last year, advocates say more is needed.
'This year, we want to prevent that from happening and hold [Bowser] to her word,' said Megan Salmon with Spaces and Action. 'She has promised to fund it to its previous levels, but that's still not enough. We still are going to need about another $10 million to fully fund the program to its needs.'
While adults rallied for change, children enjoyed a festive day with face painting, games, music and more at Freedom Plaza, bringing energy to the cause.
'It's super important for [Bowser] to keep her promises to send that clear message that early childhood matters. Children matter to families. And why does it matter? We need the funding to be able to do the work,' Berry said.
Organizers say they are also closely watching actions in Congress that could impact D.C.'s budget. Another rally is planned for Wednesday as advocacy efforts continue.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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