WEA Education Support Professional of the Year
Congratulations to Renton School District Recruitment Coordinator Aneeka Ferrell, who is taking the lead on addressing education support professional raises and being a role model for students of color.
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.
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.
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Meet WEA's 2023 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)
Find your ACT contactThe 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.
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Resources for ESPs
Read MoreHere is a list of resources curated by fellow education support professionals for ESPs.
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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:
- The Lowdown on Living Wage Campaigns
- Living Wage Calculators - Do you make a living wage?
- Five Ways to Research a Living Wage
- Living Wage Lobbying Guide