NEA speaks up for the rights of students. Browse recent messages to Congressional leadership, and add your voice.
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.
Bills in Congress
Learn NEA's position on pending legislation related to public education, and take action to protect our schools
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Support
HR 770 ESP and School Support Staff Family Leave Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on 02/02/2023
Many education support professionals are not eligible for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) due to the law’s provisions. The ESP Family Leave Act would provide them with access to the same FMLA protections that other working families receive.
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Support
S 226 ESP and School Support Staff Family Leave Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on 02/02/2023
Many education support professionals are not eligible for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) due to the law’s provisions. The ESP Family Leave Act would provide them with access to the same FMLA protections that other working families receive.
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Support
HR 5348 ESP Family Leave Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on 09/23/2021
To establish eligibility requirements for education support professionals under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, and for other purposes.
Recent Victory
Honoring ESPs with a New Award
We Love our ESP

Key Facts About ESPs

ESP Professional Growth

Stopping Privatization
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