Celebrating ESPs during American Education Week
Today we celebrate Education Support Professionals as part of American Education Week. They are a rock in the foundation of every successful school, helping in the classroom, feeding and transporting our children and making sure our students have a safe learning environment.
How ESP Day started
The first Education Support Professionals day was held almost 30 years ago in 1987 after the NEA RA called for a way to celebrate these unsung heroes. At the time, ESPs went by Education Support Personnel. In 2001, the NEA RA formally changed the name to include the term "Professional" to more accurately reflect the major contributions ESPs make every day. Learn more about the history here.
Resources for Washington ESPs
ESPs are a cornerstone of the WEA and deeply involved in shaping the organization.
- The WEA/ESP Action Coordinating Team is a statewide group made up of leaders who are dedicated to advocating for and advising local ESP units. The team works to promote member satisfaction, strengthen local bargaining units and empower education support professionals through increased skills.
- Every year the WEA honors the ESP of the year and asks winners to speak at the annual Representative Assembly.
- The WEA provides support for ESPs fighting for a living wage.
Meeting the Needs of the Whole Student
Watch this video from NEA that explains the many ways ESPs help students strive from K-12 through college.