The Child Care WAGE$® Program was created in North Carolina in 1994 in response to research evidence that shows that the quality of care children receive is lowered by high turnover rates and inadequate teacher education. 

1989  – Recommendation for salary supplement program from first child care

workforce study completed in NC

1994  – Pilot for 99 participants awarded salary supplements in Orange County, NC

1994  – 1999 – WAGE$ experiences gradual growth across North Carolina

1999  – WAGE$ becomes a statewide initiative in North Carolina

2001  – Initial state awarded WAGE$ License

2019  – WAGE$ operating in six states