Early childhood educators in Kentucky voiced their frustrations during the JCBE meeting on July 29, 2025, as they urged the board to approve a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that, while not ideal, prevents a return to less favorable working conditions. Teachers expressed deep concerns about increasing responsibilities without adequate support or compensation, highlighting a growing crisis in early childhood education.

Laura Rogers, an early childhood teacher, articulated the challenges faced by educators, stating, "This agreement did nothing to fix the piling on duties that we're facing... These are entire job roles being added to our plates with no compensation." She emphasized that the current workload is unsustainable, leading to burnout and teacher attrition. Rogers noted that the MOA was a "bandage" for a deeper wound, calling for future contracts to include necessary time, support, and compensation for the additional responsibilities.

Colleague Liz Shelburne echoed these sentiments, pointing out the inequities in planning time compared to K-12 teachers. "We are still not being treated equitably," she said, highlighting that early childhood teachers receive significantly less protected planning time. Shelburne urged the board to recognize the foundational role early childhood education plays in the overall education system, stating, "If you give us the support, we will lay that foundation."

The educators' passionate appeals reflect a critical moment for early childhood education in Kentucky, as they seek recognition and support for their vital work. The board's decision on the MOA will be pivotal in shaping the future of early childhood education in the district, with teachers hoping for a commitment to better working conditions in upcoming contract negotiations.