By Elizabeth Kelleher, Ed. D., Initiatives Officer, The Early Childhood Innovation Center This is a large need that requires childcare directors to engage in strategic outreach and diligence to ensure they have the educators they must employ in their centers. The stress to fill positions in early childhood education (ECE) and other sectors is leading many influencers right now to reject the idea that a traditional associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree is helpful or necessary for employment.