Publications

The next mayor of the District of Columbia should announce Childcare for All at the start of the new administration, setting a bold vision that every family can access high-quality childcare and no family pays more than 7% of its household income for care.

On Tuesday, June 23, 2026 the DC Council passed the District’s fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget, adding critical investments to the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund and the Child Care Subsidy program.

The Pay Equity Fund is the nation’s first dedicated public funding stream designed to close the pay gap between early childhood educators and public school teachers, reflecting a commitment to recognizing early educators—disproportionately women and women of color—as essential to the education system.

Taxes and other sources of revenue make up the collective resources the District of Columbia needs to meet growing needs and invest in public services that allow all residents to thrive, including early childhood education programs.

For the FY26 budget, we urge you to prioritize critical investments in the DC early childhood system to address gaps in access, affordability, quality, and the well-being of young children, families, and the early childhood workforce.

The Pay Equity Fund (PEF) boosts early educator pay and benefits, delivering a 23% ROI while enhancing care quality and strengthening the local economy.

Investing in early childhood education boosts DC’s economy by supporting workforce productivity and attracting residents. Quality child care ensures both immediate and long-term benefits for businesses and families.

This policy brief emphasizes the urgent need for expanded access to affordable child care in DC, advocating for fully funded programs to ensure high-quality care for children and economic security for families.