We are Early Childhood Educators representing all aspects of our sector from the early years  to out of school care.     We have many, many years of education and experience in our sector. With the billions of dollars being allotted to childcare expansion in the coming years, many of us are shocked that educator/staff wage top up levels will not be raised and have not been increased since implemented in 2008.

Staff burnout and retention are immense issues in our field – we simply do not get paid enough, most of us do not receive benefits, pension, sick time or vacation days.    We are overworked and underpaid. No raise in top up pay since 2008 when the regulations were updated.  They were updated in February but no increase included - isn’t it time?  We deserve more!

The new plan includes, as I know you are aware:

lol 2.865 billion to lower childcare fees for Alberta parents

240.64 million to increase the number of childcare spaces

202.6 million to develop and fund childcare options to support vulnerable and diverse populations/children with extra needs

306.16 million to support licensed programs and certified educators in offering high quality support for families

Where is the money for educator wages? We work long hours for little pay, we are undervalued even though we are the backbone of the economy – without us, families with young children would not be able to work – Alberta’s economic recovery would be at a standstill.

We as educators demand answers, moreover we demand more money in our pockets – not just professional development grants but money in terms of higher top ups, higher base wages, mandatory benefits, sick time, and vacation time. We are professionals and we deserve to be paid as such.

We demand change and we demand it NOW.