Home » Resources » Blog & Insights » Education Support Professionals Day | FAQs

Education Support Professionals Day | FAQs

| by Alex Skov

Share

Have you ever thought about what happens behind the scenes to make a school run? Past the teachers and administrators on the front line, there’s a whole team of dedicated individuals working to create a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment for every student. Education Support Professionals (ESPs) are a vital group in every school; that’s why there is a day each year during American Education Week dedicated just to them. 

Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about Education Support Professionals Day, including when it is, why it’s so important, and how you can join in to show your appreciation for ESPs.

Table of Contents

What is Education Support Professionals Day?

Education Support Professionals Day is a national day of recognition for support staff in public schools throughout the U.S. The day was first celebrated in 1987 after the National Education Association (NEA) called for a special way to honor the contributions of these team members who help keep students safe and healthy. 

So, who exactly are ESPs? They are a diverse group of professionals who work alongside teachers to ensure students can succeed, including paraprofessionals, office staff, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, school nurses, technology assistants, and facilities and maintenance personnel.

When is Education Support Professionals Day?

Education Support Professionals Day is celebrated every year on the Wednesday of American Education Week, which takes place annually in the week before Thanksgiving.

For 2025, Education Support Professionals Day will be on Wednesday, November 19.

Why is Education Support Professionals Day Important?

Education Support Professionals are the backbone of our schools. They create a positive and safe environment where students feel supported and ready to learn. Their work allows teachers to focus on teaching and helps the entire school system function efficiently.

ESPs’ roles extend far beyond their job descriptions. They are often mentors, advocates, and trusted adults for students, so recognizing their contributions on Education Support Professionals Day is a way to acknowledge their importance and show them that their efforts are seen and valued.

How Can Individuals and Communities Celebrate Education Support Professionals Day?

Showing your appreciation for education support professionals is easy. Here are a few simple ways you, your school, and your community can celebrate ESPs:

  • Write personalized thank-you notes to express your gratitude. 
  • Consider giving small gifts like a desk plant or a gift card for coffee as a token of appreciation. 
  • Offer public acknowledgments and recognition during morning announcements or at a school assembly, or in a community newsletter. 
  • Share a post on social media to thank ESPs and share personal stories, and use hashtags like #AEW25 to join the national conversation.

What is American Education Week? 

American Education Week is a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring the team of professionals who support the nation’s students — at the front of classrooms, in offices, and all throughout school campuses. The tradition was established in 1921 by the NEA in response to reports low literacy rates among men drafted into military service during World War I. 

To learn more about American Education Week, its daily themes, and more ways to celebrate the education professionals in your community, read our full FAQ blog.

How Does Moreland University Support Educators Year-Round?

At Moreland University, we believe in supporting all educators, including ESPs who are looking to advance their careers. Many paraprofessionals, teaching assistants, and other support staff have a passion for education and often consider becoming certified teachers. 

Our programs are designed for working professionals who need a flexible and accessible path to certification, including the 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program that provides the training and credentials needed to lead a classroom in as little as 9 months. Our master’s degree programs — including our Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) with Teaching Certificate and the M.Ed. Add-On for TEACH-NOW graduates — equip candidates with advanced knowledge, skills, and subject area specializations that can open doors to new opportunities including leadership roles.

Take the Next Step in Your Education Career with Moreland University

Education Support Professionals Day is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the incredible work that ESPs do. Their contributions are essential for creating the positive, safe, and nurturing schools that students deserve. 

If you are an ESP considering teaching as a career and you are ready to take the next step in your journey, explore Moreland’s flexible, fully online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program or master’s degree programs to build on your existing experience and make your professional dreams a reality. 

Additional Reading