Virginia’s education officials released a detailed report outlining how the Commonwealth could eliminate the current shortfall of at least 140,000 child‑care slots for working families. The study, commissioned by the General Assembly earlier this year, projects that the most expansive option – the “Affordability for All” plan – would require up to $4.5 billion each year for ten years.
Under that scenario, the state would raise annual salaries for roughly 43,000 early‑education teachers by an average of $17,000. The plan would also expand access to an additional 240,000 children, ensuring that families would pay no more than 0 % to 10 % of their income for care.
Other funding options
The report presents two less costly alternatives. The “Improving Affordability” option would cost $3.7 billion per year, cap family copays between 2.5 % and 20 % of household income, serve an extra 190,000 children, and increase teacher wages by $14,000 annually. The most modest “Sustaining Historic Growth” plan would cost $1.6 billion per year, add 39,000 new child‑care slots, and raise wages by $9,500, with families capped at 5 % of income but receiving no assistance above $122,000.
All three proposals acknowledge that the figures do not yet factor in future inflation or benchmarking adjustments.
Current challenges
Virginia families currently pay well above the federal affordability benchmark of 7 % of income for child‑care, with costs in every region exceeding three times that level. State reimbursements cover only about 51 % of the “cost of quality,” the amount providers say is needed to deliver high‑quality early‑childhood education.
The statewide minimum‑wage increase to $15 has further strained providers. According to the department, 80 % of providers raised tuition after the wage hike. Among subsidized centers, one in four reduced enrollment and one in five cut staff.
Voices from the field
Secretary of Education Jeffery Smith emphasized the link between a strong economy and affordable, high‑quality child‑care at an Oct. 14 summit held at the Peake Childhood Center in Newport News. “For us to have a strong economy, we must also have affordable and high‑quality childcare options for all Virginians,” he said.
Jennifer Parish, executive director of the Peake Childhood Center, expressed optimism that the funding proposals could provide needed support, noting that the current subsidy program covers only about half of true costs. She warned that low wages remain a major barrier to hiring and retaining qualified staff, leaving classrooms empty.
Home‑based provider Cheryl Morman from Richmond echoed the concern, stressing the need for livable wages so that educators can care for all children, including those with special needs.
Parent representative Kayla Brewer, a member of the Commission on Early Child Care and Education, called for a shared responsibility among public agencies, providers, families, and employers, stating, “Educators deserve more, but parents can’t afford to pay it.”
Legislative next steps
State lawmakers will receive the full report, which includes long‑term projections and the three funding options, in the coming weeks. Governor Abigail Spanberger is expected to present budget amendments in December, setting the stage for legislative debate on how to fund the chosen approach.
Sen. Mamie Locke (D‑Hampton) and Del. Briana Sewell (D‑Prince William) co‑sponsored the legislation that directed the agency’s study. Locke described the numbers as evidence that the Commonwealth must invest in its children.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
