Contributed by Patty Sinclair, past president of MAAEYC.

Early childhood education (ECE) leaders are the backbone of our programs, nurturing children, educators, and families. However, recent insights from Massachusetts directors highlight an urgent crisis: these leaders are overwhelmed, burned out, and considering leaving the field.

A recent survey of 140 Massachusetts center directors, conducted by Donna Denette, Executive Director of The Children First Center, 72% reported thinking about leaving, citing exhaustion, funding issues, and staffing shortages. One director stated, “We’re all living our toughest times in this field.” This sentiment was echoed by Donna, who testified at a recent Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) Board meeting: “Our sector is held together by program leaders who are overwhelmingly exhausted and burned out.” Patty Sinclair, past president of MAAEYC, also testified, “It’s a heartbreaking and difficult reality when we, as leaders, want to help children thrive but often lack the tools and resources to do so effectively.”

Investing in ECE leaders is essential. Priorities include sustainable funding, professional development, mentorship programs, and wellness initiatives. Sinclair noted, “When directors feel valued and supported, it creates a ripple effect—leading to stable, thriving programs.”  The future of early education depends on supporting these leaders. By addressing burnout and providing the necessary resources, we strengthen the entire system.

What steps can we take to better support ECE leaders?

Additional Resources and Research
Expanding the Lens—Leadership as an Organizational Asset