Education Support Professionals

One Job Should Be Enough

ESP Bill Of Rights

KNEA is proud to include Education Support Professionals (ESPs) among its membership. They are critical to the success of our public schools. ESPs are paraeducators, bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers, and so much more. ESPs are essential members of the educational team to support the needs of students at all levels. Yet, many have to take more than one job to make ends meet.

Join the movement for a living wage, fairness, and respect.

Learn more

ESP Career Families

As critical members of the education workforce, ESPs meet the needs of the whole student, ensuring students and schools succeed. They work in nine career families.

Clerical service ESPs are on the front lines of all office operations, working in settings from schools to administrative offices to transportation facilities.
Custodial and Maintenance ESPs keep schools safe and clean for students, staff, and the community.
Food Service ESPs ensure students have access to safe and nutritious meals, which impacts their behavior, energy levels, thinking, physical health, overall well-being, and ability to learn.
Health and Student Service Workers perform a wide variety of jobs that improve and protect students' health and welfare.
Paraeducators assist with classroom instruction and provide direct services to students, families, and the community.
Security ESPs ensure the safety and security of students and staff on school grounds, taking a leadership role in crisis situations, community building, and conflict resolution.
Skilled Trades workers maintain and service school facilities, buildings, and offices, ensuring they are safe and comfortable for students, staff, and the community.
Technical Service ESPs ensure high standards of technology and communications in our schools.
Transportation ESPs are on the front lines of all office operations, working in settings from schools to administrative offices to transportation facilities.