-From your perspective, what is current public opinion in the United States with regard to the value and importance of providing quality services (including early care and education) for young children and families?

I think that there has been a shift in the importance of early childhood education over the years. I think that little attention was given to field in the past and now it is becoming a contender in the education field. We are seeing more attention being focused on this field, and an awareness of the benefits of early childhood education. Although it seems like many people are in favor of the need for early childhood education, it still is a struggle to get the funding that is needed to expand and grow.

I think we need to focus on how to expand early childhood education, but also focus on quality as well. I have been to way too many centers that are hiring workers that are not qualified for this job. And that is where many of the issues in this field arise.  It is going to be a struggle to get qualified workers in this field when the average pay is a little more than minimum wage.

 

-What indicators and other information have influenced and are influencing your thinking?

I have been influenced by visiting other centers. I have seen first hand, the improvements that need to be made in this field. I have also seen way to many news articles on the abuse and neglect of children who are being watched by babysitters, and people who are not qualified to work with children, especially in low income areas. Parents need to work, and it is sad that many of them in low income areas have no other options but to leave their children with people who are not credible. This needs to change, and hopefully sooner than later.