The NEA Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year Award, presented by NEA and NEA Member Benefits, honors a member who demonstrates outstanding accomplishments and whose achievements reflect the vital role ESPs play in public education.
The NEA ESP of the Year serves as an ambassador for ESPs across the country, promoting the value of ESP members at local, state, and national events. While the award showcases one outstanding ESP each year, it also recognizes and honors the contributions that all ESPs make towards ensuring great public schools for every student.
2025 NEA ESP of the Year Nominees
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Delaware
Federal
Florida
Idaho
Illinois
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Meet the 2024 NEA ESP of the Year
Jen Bramson is an early childhood paraeducator in Park City, UT, and a fierce leader at the Utah School Employees Association. She is dedicated to fighting inequities for her students and improving the lives of ESPs everywhere. In this role, she will serve as an ambassador for ESPs across the country, speaking about the work and importance of ESPs at local, state, and national events.
Meet the 2024 NEA ESP of the Year Finalists!
- Carmel Quinn
Paraeducator, Vermont - Carol Peek
Campus Supervisor, California - Erica Nungaray
Registrar, Nevada - Jen Bramson
Lead Preschool Teacher, Utah - Nashasta Craig-Pollard
Payroll Clerk and Bus Driver, Alabama
Suggested Further Reading
- Utah Paraeducator Named 2024 ESP of the Year NEA Today
- Utah’s Jennifer Bramson recognized as 2024 NEA ESP of the Year NEA Media Center
- Park City educator receives national recognition for work helping education support professionals KPCW - NPR
- Park City paraeducator recognized nationally with 2024 NEA ESP Award Townlift - Park City News
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