The NEA Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year Award honors a member who demonstrates outstanding accomplishments and reflects the vital role ESPs play in public education. NEA will present the 2027 ESP of the Year (ESPOY) Award in the spring as part of the 2027 NEA ESP National Conference.
Award Overview and Requirements
ESP of the Year (ESPOY) State Affiliate Points of Contact (POCs) and nominees should download and review the 2027 ESPOTY Overview and Requirements and supporting materials in their entirety. The Overview and Requirements describe the ESPOY program, eligibility and nomination package requirements, scoring criteria, and the selection process.
Download the 2027 ESPOTY Overview and Requirements
Download the following supporting materials
- 2027 Sample ESP of the Year Nomination Form
- 2027 ESP of the Year Nominee Template
- 2027 ESP of the Year Letter of Recommendation Requirements
- 2027 ESP of the Year Nomination Submission Checklist
How to Submit a Nomination
ESPOY State Affiliate POCs will submit nominations through an online Smartsheet form. POCs are individuals appointed by the state affiliate executive director to liaise with NEA staff and coordinate the compilation and submission of their state’s ESPOY nomination to NEA. POCs work directly with nominees to collect the award requirements and then enter them into the nomination form on their behalf. Nominees cannot submit their own nominations.
Note: NEA staff will soon reach out to State Executive Directors to confirm their point of contact for the 2027 award. Once confirmed, POCs will receive a link to the nomination form.
Deadline for Nominations: Midnight ET on Monday, September 28, 2026
Questions? Contact Jennie Young at [email protected].
Are you an affiliate?
