The Upper Valley’s Early Care & Education Association Workforce Network

The Upper Valley region’s childcare challenges have long mirrored national problems: low wages, high turnover, and isolation among providers, leading to inadequate capacity and quality. This was exacerbated during COVID-19, as many daycare centers and home providers in this rural area struggled to stay open; they lacked access to training or a professional community, and prospective educators were deterred by the low pay and high barriers to entry. This disruption significantly affected many working families and garnered the attention of the Couch Family Foundation, which had worked on childcare issues in the region for years.

The Couch Family Foundation created the Early Care & Education Association (ECEA) in 2018 to establish a formal association that unites providers, offers professional development, and advocates for workers in the field. Key initiatives of ECEA include: a Career Cultivator program—a free training and apprenticeship pipeline for new early educators; support for educators to obtain their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; a peer mentorship network where experienced directors and family childcare providers share knowledge and emotional support; and access to national conferences and leadership training for local providers. Notably, the Career Cultivator pilot recruited individuals from non-traditional backgrounds into the ECE field and provided them with pre-service training and paid practicum placements. ECEA also worked on elevating wages by helping providers find resources (e.g., grants and stipends) to reward educated staff.

• Empower childcare providers in a setting strategic framework: The success of ECEA stemmed from trusting childcare providers to lead the change. In replication, start by convening the local childcare operators and educators—ask what they need and involve them in designing the network. A provider-led ethos ensures buy-in and relevance.
• Peer support and professional development: Set up regular forums for directors and educators to meet, share challenges, and access training. For example, providing the opportunity to attend conferences or bringing in trainers locally. This not only builds skills but also a sense of community.