



ESP Day
On average, Education Support Professionals make up 30-40% of the staff in a school district, so this is a vital, but sometimes underappreciated segment of the public education system. On November 16, people across the country celebrated the dedication and hard work of ESPs in our public schools by observing National ESP Day. This year, Idaho showed overwhelming support, appreciation, and respect for ESPs in the state. With numerous local associations hosting social events and dinners, and giving out treats, it was easy for ESPs to feel appreciated.
Minidoka EA treated their ESPs to a nice dinner with IEA President Penni Cyr as the guest speaker. Locals such as Nampa, Pocatello, Vallivue, and Potlatch gave their ESPs a much needed social to be able to connect with other ESPs while enjoying a beverage and snacks. Many locals decided to surprise their ESPs with a gift sent personally to them at their school or work location. Thank you to all the locals that participated in ESP Day–your support and recognition were very much appreciated.
ESP Award, ESP SPARKS, ESP Webpage
- Now is the time to nominate outstanding ESPs for the IEA’s Edythe Crowe Award, presented at Delegate Assembly to the top ESP in the state.
- An ESP SPARKS training session is being planned for July at the IEA Summer Institute at Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa. This is a wonderful opportunity for ESP members to bond with colleagues from across the state, access valuable professional development, and “spark” the fire within the association. More information coming soon.
- The IEA website now has a page specifically featuring information about/for ESPs. It is a work in progress, but check out what is there now. http://idahoea.org/join-iea/esp/