Did you know that 96% of the workforce in North Dakota makes a higher wage than early childhood teachers?
Did you know there is no reimbursement system for early childhood in North Dakota? All revenue comes from tuition.
Did you know that the teachers have to have low wages in order to provide affordable programs?
I had someone ask me the other day why I decided to work with young children. She asked if I was crazy. No, in fact, I am not crazy. Just like the late Whitney Houston said "I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way..." Seriously. I just quoted Whitney Houston.
Why is it that people caring for the elderly are paid almost twice as much as those that care and educate young children? I realize that they need some nursing skills but, we spend every single day with your child. Your child who has only been on this earth about 36 months. Seriously.
I am the director of an early learning program. We educate and care for children 20 months to Kindergarten. I admire each and every teacher working in our program.
Would you spend every day with a group of 20 month - 36 month olds? With the crying, pooping, potty training, cleaning, wiping, dressing...and finally teaching. Seriously.
Each and everyday I thank God that I had the opportunity to be a teacher for eight years before taking on an administrative role.
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I worked as a preschool teacher for several years and was never able to make enough money to pay back my student loans for my degree. I took a break and got my CNA certificate which allowed me to work in healthcare as a nurses aide. I made almost double what I made teahing preschool. But I missed the kiddies so I went back and as a single mom was barely able to pay my bills. But I knew what I was doing was important. Now I work as the Technical Assistance Coordinator for Child Care Aware and help preschools and child care centers improve. It makes me mad that the pay is so low. Its that way here too. How can we improve the quality when the teachers are making the same as a teenager working in fast food. It doesn't make sense.
Ah. So true. I wouldn't change working in a preschool for the world (2-3 year olds), but you're right. It takes special people to work with the early childhood age group, and I wish they were more appreciated as a whole.
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