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Who are Education Support Professionals?

Education support professionals (ESP) are public school district employees who support school functionality, classroom learning, health and wellness, maintain quality schools and more. 

Meet Our ESPs 

The National Education Association (NEA) has identified nine main job groups that include more than 300 categories of ESP positions, including:

  • Paraeducators: instructional and non-instructional support

  • Transportation services: bus drivers and maintenance support 

  • Clerical services: secretarial, clerical and administrative support

  • Custodial and maintenance services: custodial, building and grounds maintenance

  • Food services: food planning, preparation and service

  • Skilled trades services: trades, crafts and machine operations

  • Health and student services: nursing, health and therapy support and community, family, parent and welfare services

  • Security services: school resource, guard and security specialties

  • Technical services: computer, audiovisual and language technical support and media, public relations, writing and art specialties

Many of the responsibilities of ESPs require direct contact with kids, parents and community members. The role of the education support professional supports student learning and growth in healthy, safe school environments.

Consider applying or nominating an ESP for the ISTA ESP of the Year award. 

ESP of the Year

ESP Membership

All ESPs in Indiana are eligible to join ISTA and NEA. There are 25 local associations throughout the state, and many ESP members join as individuals if there is no collective bargaining unit available in their school district. ESPs interested in joining ISTA should connect with the association representative (AR) in their building or contact the Member Resource Center at 844-ASK-ISTA (275-4782).