Racial Wage Gaps in Early Education Employment

Early educators are some of the lowest-paid workers in every state, which especially burdens African American and Hispanic women in this profession. This report analyzes the racial disparities that exist in early education employment. Findings show that African American early educators earn less than their peers; African American and Hispanic early educators are more likely to be relegated to positions associated with the lowest wages; and early educators of color are more likely to suffer the pay penalty for working with the youngest children.