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Education Support Professionals

More than a half million Education Support Professional members take care of our children every day and make sure they have the tools they need to succeed in our schools and classrooms. 
group of ESPs in blue shirts NEA
NEA celebrated the 96th National Education Support Professional Day with members in Phoenix, Arizona. On average, ESPs have more than a decade of experience in their profession.

School support staff, also known as Education Support Professionals (ESPs), strengthen our schools, communities, and associations across the country. They play a vital role on the education team and in students' lives inside and outside the classroom. They keep our schools running and our students safe, healthy, and ready to learn every day.

For decades, NEA has championed ESPs, their efforts to gain full inclusion in the Association, and their full recognition as accomplished professionals. Today, more than 2.2 million ESPs work in our nation’s public schools and colleges, making up one third of the public education workforce. Of these, approximately a half million are NEA members.

Become a Member

    NEA ESPs are represented by 9 career families

    An ESP career family is a group of ESP professions that share similar core job skills, responsibilities, education, and training.
    Clerical

    Clerical Service Workers

    Clerical service ESPs are on the front lines of all office operations, working in settings from schools to administrative offices to transportation facilities.
    Learn more
    Custodial

    Custodial and Maintenance Workers

    Custodial and Maintenance ESPs keep schools safe and clean for students, staff, and the community.
    Learn more
    Food Service

    Food Service Workers

    Food Service ESPs ensure students have access to safe and nutritious meals, which impacts their behavior, energy levels, thinking, physical health, overall well-being, and ability to learn.
    Learn more
    Nurse

    Health and Student Service Workers

    Health and Student Service Workers perform a wide variety of jobs that improve and protect students' health and welfare.
    Learn more
    Paraeducator

    Paraeducators

    Paraeducators assist with classroom instruction and provide direct services to students, families, and the community.
    Learn more
    Security ESP

    Security Workers

    Security ESPs ensure the safety and security of students and staff on school grounds, taking a leadership role in crisis situations, community building, and conflict resolution.
    Learn more
    Skilled Trades

    Skilled Trades Workers

    Skilled Trades workers maintain and service school facilities, buildings, and offices, ensuring they are safe and comfortable for students, staff, and the community.
    Learn more
    A teacher helps students use laptop computers

    Technical Service Workers

    Technical Service ESPs ensure high standards of technology and communications in our schools.
    Learn more
    Transportation

    Transportation Service Workers

    Transportation ESPs are on the front lines of all office operations, working in settings from schools to administrative offices to transportation facilities.
    Learn more

    Key Facts About School Support Staff

    Education Support Professionals (ESPs) are critical members of the K-12 and Higher-ed public education workforce.

    More than 3 out of 5

    have given money out of their own pockets to help students with things such as classroom materials, field trips, and class projects, averaging $282 per year.

    A majority (67%)

    live in the school district where they work, and many volunteer in those communities.

    A majority (76%)

    of K-12 ESPs have responsibilities for promoting and ensuring student and staff safety.

    More than one half (57%)

    of K-12 ESPs and a majority (94%) of higher ed ESPs have an Associate’s or more advanced degree.

    View Factsheet on PreK-12 ESPs

    View Factsheet on Higher Ed ESPs

    ESP Pay

    ESPs want and deserve better pay. Our report offers a breakdown of ESP earnings for K-12 and higher education. Learn More >>


    ESP Professional Growth

    We work with ESPs to create learning opportunities and supports for them to elevate their professional excellence throughout their careers. Learn more >>

    Job & Career Security

    ESPs need protection from layoffs and privatization, which are threats to the entire school community. Take action >>

    ESP of the Year Award

    Through the annual award, we recognize the contributions that Education Support Professionals make toward their schools, communities, and professions. Learn more >>

    ESP Members of the NEA Board

    25 State and At-Large elected ESP members make up the NEA Board of Directors responsible for the general policies and interests of the Association. Learn more >>

    Our Impact

    ESPs make a positive impact on the lives of students throughout their time in school and beyond.
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    National Education Association

    Great public schools for every student

    The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.
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