Home »  Educators  » Education Support Professionals

ESPs: A foundation for our students

Great public schools require a combined effort by many dedicated people. Our Education Support Professionals (ESPs) are committed, caring WEA members who prepare students for success every day. They are our secretaries and office clerks, bus drivers, paraeducators, food service workers, custodians and maintenance staff, security, healthcare providers, skilled trades and technical staff.

text messaging graphic

Sign up to receive automated text message alerts for the latest news, professional development opportunities and resources for Education Support Professionals from your Association. Text the word WEAESP to the toll-free number 833-258-6815 for the latest scoop on all things ESP at WEA.
Message and data rates may apply.

  • WEA Education Support Professional of the Year

    Aimee Bishop is all about engaging and making connections with students. As registrar/secretary and transition specialist at the Island County juvenile detention center, she works with students who are struggling with traditional brick and mortar schools and are either not on track to graduating or have dropped out of school. She also works with Open Den, a reengagement program. Congratulations to Aimee Bishop from Coupeville Education Support Association.

    Meet WEA's 2024 ESP of Year

  • Professional Development

    Education support professionals play a key role in ensuring student success, and their impact is even stronger when there are clear expectations, when they are valued, and when they have opportunities for professional learning and supports throughout their careers.
    View trainings

  • Action Coordinating Team (ACT)

    The WEA/ESP Action Coordinating Team is a statewide group made up of leaders from each UniServ Council 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.

    Find your ACT contact

  • Resources for ESPs

    Here is a list of resources curated by fellow education support professionals for ESPs.

    Read More

Working for a living wage

Every worker deserves a living wage. A living wage means earning enough to pay for basic necessities: rent, food, utilities, childcare, healthcare and transportation. People who work full time should not have to live below the poverty line.

Several ESP units in Washington, with assistance from WEA and NEA, have initiated grassroots organizing efforts for living wages in their communities. 

Living wage tools and other resources: