The Quality of Teachers Makes a Difference

The National Research Council recommends that teachers of early childhood education programs should have a B.A. Still:

30 states have no minimum education requirement for child care providers and only one state (Rhode Island) requires a B.A.

Of the states with public pre-kindergarten programs, only 21 states require teachers to have a B.A.; 4 states require a two year degree and 12 states require even less.

Very low salaries make it difficult to attract and retain qualified staff.

Over 40% of child care providers leave their job within the first year.

On average, child care providers, pre-kindergarten and Head Start teachers earn less than hairdressers and cosmetologists.

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