OECD Education Report: U.S. Compares Poorly with Industrialized Nations on Pre-K Enrollment and Gender Gap in Post-College Earnings and Student Debt

WASHINGTON—Statement by American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s latest education report showing the United States’ disappointing ranking among industrialized countries on access to high-quality early childhood education, the gender gap in post-college earnings and exceedingly high student debt:

“The OECD’s ‘Education at a Glance’ report is a reminder that the United States has a tremendous amount of work to do to meet the needs of all kids, from their toddler years to college and career.

“At 42 percent, the United States has one of the lowest rates of children enrolled in early childhood education compared with other industrialized nations. Given what we know about the boost preschool gives students, it shouldn’t even be a question that our nation must guarantee access to high-quality early childhood education for all.

“It is equally disheartening to see that the United States has one of the worst gender gaps in earnings among the OECD countries, giving men an overwhelming edge. Compounding the gender wage gap is our country’s unconscionable student debt crisis, one of the worst in the world. More than 70 percent of college graduates are burdened with debt, with an average of more than $35,000 per borrower.

“These issues require urgent attention. When kids are ready for learning, attend a welcoming school with a broad and engaging curriculum, have access to an affordable college education and are paid a fair wage when they enter the workforce, they can move up the ladder of opportunity. Only one presidential candidate—Hillary Clinton—has a comprehensive, practical way to address these issues, with a plan for universal pre-K, tuition-free higher education and reducing student debt.”