Early Care and Education Programs During COVID-19: Persistent Inequities and Emerging Challenges

This report analyzes the impact of COVID-19 on the early care and education system using data from the 2020 California Early Care and Education (ECE) Workforce Study. Findings show that the pandemic worsened existing disparities within the ECE workforce based on program type and funding. To mitigate these disparities, policymakers can provide additional pandemic relief and recovery funds; prioritize stable contract-based funding arrangements for home-based providers and centers; facilitate unionization among ECE workers; establish data-collection protocols; and more.