HARRISBURG, PA — A growing crisis in Pennsylvania’s early care and education sector took center stage on Monday as lawmakers, advocates, and child care providers gathered to call for urgent action. Facing a teacher shortage fueled by low wages, the state’s early childhood programs are struggling to stay open, leading to lengthy waitlists for families and economic setbacks for communities.
Rep. Danilo Burgos (D-District 197) highlighted the critical role of child care in the economy, stating, “A thriving business community requires a thriving child care network. It is critical that we tackle the teacher shortage head-on by exploring effective recruiting and retention strategies used in other states.”
The shortage has forced providers like Lizania Soto, owner of Hadassah Children Center in Berks County, to operate under strain. “These educators are the backbone of our programs,” Soto explained. “We need investment in fair compensation and benefits that value their dedication and efforts.”
According to Sen. Judy Schwank (D-District 11), the magnitude of the issue is staggering. She referenced a Start Strong PA survey, which reported over 3,000 staffing vacancies across child care centers in the state. “If these positions were filled, providers could serve 25,000 more children,” Schwank said, emphasizing the ripple effect on families and local economies.
Governor Shapiro’s proposed investments aim to combat the crisis, including $55 million for teacher recruitment and retention grants and $15 million to increase per-child rates for Pre-K Counts providers. Rep. Shelby Labs (R-District 143), a working parent herself, stressed the urgency of action. “At no other time does the brain develop as rapidly as in early childhood. We must prioritize investments in this critical period to set children and families up for success,” Labs noted.
Bipartisan support underscores the importance of addressing the issue, with recent polling showing 83% of Pennsylvania voters favor increased funding to boost educator wages. Sen. Pat Stefano (R-District 32) called for unity, stating, “Early learning is an issue that unites us all. It’s time to work together to move forward.”
Advocates urged the General Assembly to act swiftly on these proposals, emphasizing the potential to strengthen families, businesses, and communities. The message resonated throughout the rally, reminding Pennsylvania’s leaders that investing in early education is a step toward securing the state’s future prosperity.
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