Georgia M. - Early Educator

“I’m currently a graduate social work intern at a Head Start-funded early childhood center in Massachusetts. I’m not a teacher, but I work closely with our classroom educators, administrators, and families every day. What I’ve seen has deeply moved me — both the dedication of the staff and the structural challenges they’re up against.

Many of our teachers are brilliant, warm, and endlessly creative. They show up each morning with care and intention, even when they’re stretched thin. But the obstacles are serious: low pay, understaffing, and the emotional toll of doing so much for so little. We had a classroom sit empty for months because we couldn’t recruit staff — not due to lack of passion, but because wages aren’t livable. When we finally hired someone, she was overwhelmed within days. The teachers that do stay amid years of turnover are so dedicated and bring so much of themselves to their work every day.

The system needs to address compensation, staffing ratios, and benefits if we want to retain this amazing workforce. These are not babysitters — they are early childhood specialists, behavior experts, and often the first line of emotional support for both kids and families. They deserve so much more. Despite the low pay, they consistently show up with love and intention. And they do it not because the system supports them well, but because they believe in the children and families they serve.”