Published: December 2, 2021
This issue explainer originally appeared on NEA.org
One out of three public school employees is an Education Support Professional.
Education Support Professionals work in nine career fields:
- Clerical service
- Custodial and maintenance service
- Food service
- Health and student service
- Paraeducators
- Security service
- Skilled trade
- Technical service
- Transportation service
They need the resources and tools to work with teachers on promoting student achievement, keeping students safe, and cultivating a positive school climate that makes learning and growth possible.
Recent Victory
2019
Honoring ESPs with a New Award
Congress overwhelmingly passes, and Pres. Obama signs into law, the Recognizing Achievement in Classified Employees Act. The law created an annual program to acknowledge the work of outstanding Education Support Professionals in K-12 schools and higher education.
We Love our ESP
Key Facts About ESPs
Education Support Professionals are critical members of the K-12 and Higher-ed public education workforce.
ESP Professional Growth
To ensure a great public education for every student, education support professionals (ESPs) want and deserve high-quality professional development and supports at every stage of their careers
Stopping Privatization
No matter their age, from Pre-K to higher ed, our students benefit when all educators—janitorial staff, paraeducators, and college professors alike—are treated like the professionals they are.
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