What The NYC Economic Transition Team Means For Child Care

When I announced I would be joining the Workforce and Economic Development Committee Transition team for NYC Mayor-elect Eric Adams, I received many questions about the initiative. I wanted to share a few thoughts on how exciting this moment is for families and entrepreneurs in NYC and the child care sector more widely.

This initiative is a modern paradigm for how governments might leverage resources to assist families. Based on what I’ve experienced firsthand as CEO of Wonderschool, I believe these efforts can create economic stability and growth for families, child care providers, and the city–short and long term.

In New York City, Mayor-elect Adams and his team already have the following solution-based proposals in discussion:

• NYC creates a shared inventory of city-contracted and private childcare providers.
• NYC installs a salary parity for early childhood educators.
• NYC expands the earned income tax credit and expands the childcare vouchers for parents.
• NYC drops permit costs for after-school and other childcare in city buildings and
• NYC locks in affordable leases in vacant storefronts for childcare.
• NYC appoints a childcare czar to oversee all childcare.

Across the nation, there are more counties and cities where leaders address the needs of families and young children, from “prenatal to career,” coined by Mayor Adams’s office. Community leaders see the childcare industry’s significant influence on regional prosperity.

Leaders are advancing policy efforts to help childcare operators launch new businesses, expand programs, and use innovative technology. I’m proud to be a part of the group that will think through critical issues for the people of New York City. I look forward to supplying child care solutions families in the Big Apple.