Comptroller Stringer Statement on Changes to Early Childhood RFPs

“The amendments to the City’s early childhood program RFPs are important and necessary to strengthen our early childhood system and support the educators of our next generation. There is no greater obligation we have in City government than to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of our children, and I am glad to see these positive steps forward. But as they stand, these changes leave a vital priority on the table.

“We have to finish the job on pay parity for community-based providers. We can’t delay it any longer. Providers are the backbone of our early childhood education and care system, but the system cannot be sustainable if built entirely on their backs. Let’s take a clear stand that in this city, no one who cares for our children will live in poverty. We can, and must, make pay parity a reality once and for all.”

Earlier this month, Comptroller Stringer sent a letter to Chancellor Carranza urging the city to listen to and work with providers regarding amendments to early childhood education RFPs.

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