Data can show patterns.
But voices show truth.
As part of the 2025 Workforce Report, educators across Ohio, Florida, Illinois, and North Carolina shared stories from their time in classrooms — moments that shaped them, challenged them, and reminded them why this work matters.
These are not isolated experiences.
They are reflections of what it feels like to do this work when educators are welcomed, trusted, and given the space to connect.
Over and over, educators described how much the first impression mattered — not just for a shift, but for their willingness to return.
“Working at Positive Institute has been the best staff experience I’ve had through Tandem. The staff were welcoming and loving, and the atmosphere was dynamic. I loved working there.”
“I had a good experience with a center that I frequently went to because it made me feel at ease going back to child care. I had been out of the field for a long time, but the teachers made me completely comfortable.”
Being welcomed is not a courtesy.
It is a foundation for trust.
Many educators spoke about returning to the same centers and classrooms — and the relationships that formed over time.
“I worked with a center for two weeks and there was one little girl who clung to me. She was always excited to see me and she just made my day.”
“When I went back to a center after a few months, a child remembered who I was and spent the entire day by my side.”
“There are two centers I frequent. I always love when the kids run up and hug me. It was also very nice for a center to include me in their Secret Santa.”
Continuity does not always require permanence.
It requires consistency, familiarity, and care.
Educators shared memories that may seem small from the outside — but carry lifelong meaning for the children involved.
“One moment I look back on fondly was when a very quiet child walked over, took my hand, and proudly showed me their completed work. The smile they gave me was unforgettable.”
“I remember a day sitting on the carpet when all the preschoolers came and sat around me asking questions. It felt like an impromptu show-and-tell. It was so special.”
“My fondest memory was when a child drew me a picture and told me they had a great day with me.”
These are the moments that keep educators coming back.
Several educators described how being trusted to contribute made them feel like true members of the team.
“The admin team allowed me to use my creative skills to reorganize an entire classroom and implement the schedule in my own way. They even asked for my opinion. It made me feel valued.”
“I felt appreciated as a teacher assistant — like my role was actually taken seriously for the first time.”
“I was allowed to be the best version of myself as an educator. The students and staff were extremely memorable, and I loved every opportunity presented to me.”
Respect empowers educators to grow — and to stay.
Across hundreds of stories, a consistent truth emerged:
educators want to show up. They want to connect. They want to make a difference.
“I’ve had many fond memories just being around the children. The instant bonds make me feel like I’m in the right place.”
“One of the kids I worked with cried because it was time for me to go and asked me to come back.”
“I look back on every center I’ve worked at through Tandem with gratitude.”
The workforce is not disengaged.
It is deeply invested.
These voices are not asking for recognition alone.
They are asking to be heard.
The 2025 Workforce Report exists to elevate these experiences alongside real data — so leaders, programs, and partners can build systems that honor the people doing the work.
Because when educators feel welcomed, trusted, and supported, everyone benefits — especially children.
👉 Read the full Workforce Report
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