Billions in federal child care relief just expired. Costs are already skyrocketing.

Despite the price tag for parents, many center owners are in debt. The national median worker made just $13 an hour last year. According to a recent analysis by the National Women’s Law Center, pay for early educators continues to lag behind other low-paid professions. This despite many, including self-starting women like Moline, pursuing four-year or even advanced degrees.