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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.

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  • WEA Education Support Professional of the Year

    Congratulations to Pamella Johnson, social emotional behavioral interventionist, at Rochester High School. Johnson also is a member of the state Paraeducator Board, which help set policy around paraeducator training, certification and standards. The board is currently reviewing the state’s new standards for cultural competency, diversity, equity and inclusion (CCDEI) training. Johnson also intends to use her seat to speak out for paraeducator appreciation and pay.  

    Meet WEA's 2022 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: