Toward Pay Equity: A Case Study of Washington, DC's Wage Boost for Early Childhood Educators

The District of Columbia Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund provides large and sustainable wage supplements for early childhood educators working in child care. Synthesizing qualitative evidence from 11 key informants, including DC early childhood education leaders, advocates, and implementation partners; 39 parents and legal guardians of young children enrolled in licensed DC child care facilities; and 29 child care center directors and home and expanded home providers, this case study highlights the historical context behind the Pay Equity Fund, the vision and goals of the fund, early implementation successes and challenges, and future goals. These findings can inform jurisdictions across the country as they design and implement compensation improvements for the child care workforce.