American Education Week

National Education Support Professionals Day: History

Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day was first celebrated in 1987 after NEA's Representative Assembly called for the creation of a way to honor contributions of school support staff. National ESP Day is a time to strengthen support and respect for these colleagues.

In 2003, Karen Mahurin, then president of NEA's National Council of Education Support Professional (NCESP) members, led a successful campaign at the NEA Representative Assembly to change ESPs formal name from "Education Support Personnel" to "Education Support Professionals."

"The name change to 'professional' acknowledges the major contribution ESPs make to children and public education every day," says Mahurin, a secretary with 22 years of experience. "We impact the lives of children every day in our own special and professional ways."

The new name reflects a growing pride in the valuable role ESPs play throughout America's public schools. Today's support professionals provide invaluable services that enable students to learn in positive, supportive environments. ESPs are equal and essential partners in the education process.

National ESP Day will be observed this year on Wednesday, November 19.