On March 23rd, over 100 Early Childhood Educators, child care workers and supporters participated in a to PHONE ZAP Ontario  Minister Stephen Lecce, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Federal Minister Karina Gould. We listened to brave ECE stories and demanded that the Federal Child Care Agreement be signed immediately and that the early years workforce crisis is addressed in Ontario with the following:

1. A salary grid that ensures at least
a. a $25 per hour starting wage for non-qualified staff
b. a $30 per hour starting wage for Early Childhood Educators
c. a daily rate minimum for licensed home child care providers
d. and a commensurate benefits package for all.

2. Decent Work Standards that support pedagogical practice, including paid planning time, permanent paid sick and emergency leave days and Early Childhood Workforce Learning Framework.

3. The creation of practitioner roles that will strengthen program quality while formally recognizing the value of credentials, experience, and diverse knowledges.

4. Pathways to acquire and upgrade qualifications, responding to the needs and strengths of rural, remote, and marginalized communities.

You can also voice your concerns and personal experiences with the workforce crisis and what a national child care plan would mean for your life.