Earn More. Stay Longer. Teach Stronger.

The new Child Care WAGE$® Missouri (WAGE$ Missouri) pilot in St. Louis County is bringing salary supplements to early childhood educators who are helping young children learn, grow, and thrive every day. This exciting initiative recognizes the essential role early childhood professionals play in strengthening families, supporting local businesses, and building a stronger community.

As a program of Child Care Aware® of Missouri and licensed through Early Years, WAGE$ Missouri is designed to improve workforce stability by rewarding education and experience with semi-annual salary supplements.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible for WAGE$ Missouri if you:

• Work in a licensed or license-exempt child care program located in St. Louis County.
• Work directly with children birth to age five, or work on behalf of those children, at least 30 hours per week.
• Meet the education requirements listed on the WAGE$ Missouri Salary Supplement Scale.
• Earn $27 per hour or less, or $56,160 annually or less.
• Have worked at the same child care program for at least six months and remain employed and eligible at that same program while funding is available.

WAGE$ Missouri works hand-in-hand with the TEACH Early Childhood® Missouri Scholarship, helping educators continue their education and potentially qualify for higher supplement levels as they advance professionally.

If you are an early childhood educator in a St. Louis County-based child care program, you can learn more and apply by visiting childcarewagesmo.org. Apply today!

Explore our other Child Care Aware® of Missouri resources:

FREE Clock Hour Training
Scholarships for Educators
Child Care Health and Wellness
Family Child Care Network
Leadership Development Opportunities
Missouri Office of Childhood Updates
Show Me Child Care Resources
Support Child Care Aware® of Missouri
Community Data
Join Our Team
Resources to Build Your Business