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Education Support Professionals

VEA Members: Education Support Professionals

VEA is proud to include many Education Support Professionals (ESP) among its membership of 40,000.

ESP members of every job category join to enjoy the benefits of membership. As a member of VEA, you’ll not only gain a voice on the job, you’ll be entitled to money-saving insurance and other programs.

Who's an ESP?

It takes a TEAM to provide superior learning opportunities to students. Education Support Professionals support students from early morning bus pickups to classroom assistance to school breakfast and lunch programs to late night maintenance.

Here are common ESP classifications:

  • Clerical Services

  • Custodial & Maintenance

  • Food Services

  • Health & Student Services

  • Paraeducators

  • Security Services

  • Skilled Trades

  • Technical Services

  • Transportation

Register Today for VEA's 2025 ESP Conference in Richmond!

Join fellow ESPs July 17-19 in Richmond for a dedicated conference designed to strengthen your organizing skills and ensure your essential role is recognized. Through member-led panels, interactive workshops, and hands-on programs, you’ll discover effective strategies for inclusive advocacy and building union power. Connect with colleagues who understand your unique challenges and opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to amplify the ESP voice in our union!

Register Here

Meet VEA’s ESP of the Year

Stephanie Lovelace
Classroom Paraprofessional
Franklin County Education Association

Stephanie Lovelace, a member of the Franklin County Education Association and a paraeducator for nearly 30 years, is VEA’s Education Association’s Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year.

About her long career in the classroom, primarily focused in special education, Lovelace says, “I wouldn’t change a thing. I have a special place in my heart for special need students.”   Along the way, she’s sought out additional training and now holds numerous certifications in autism spectrum disorder, ranging from how to best help teach students with different types of autism to assisting such students in handling their feelings and controlling their emotions.

“Stephanie approaches every task with a positive attitude, demonstrating not only excellent organizational skills but also a compassionate and supportive presence for her students, says Vicki Craighead, assistant principal at Lovelace’s school, Lee M. Waid Elementary. “Her ability to engage with students in meaningful ways and provide support in the classroom environment is unmatched.”

Botetourt Education Association member Melissa Amos, who has worked with Lovelace in VEA’s District C leadership, points to Lovelace’s willingness to go beyond what’s expected of her in the classroom. “Stephanie has also served as a coach to students of varying levels,” she says, “including ski coach for students with special needs, chess coach for elementary students, and tennis coach for middle and high school students. And she’s always worked faithfully to not only serve her students, but she’s also worked to strengthen our union.”

Her union work has included just about every leadership role in the Franklin County Education Association, including serving as president, and also in District C, where she’s also served as president.

ESP Resources!

Key Facts About ESPs

Education Support Professionals are critical members of the K-12 and Higher-ed public education workforce.

LEARN MORE

Building Your Professional Skills

The VEA and NEA offer numerous avenues to build your skills and advance in the profession.

VEA ANNUAL ESP CONFERENCE

VEA welcomes all ESPs to join our Union.

Learn more and join now!

CLICK HERE

Did You Know?

According to a poll conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University, 66% of Virginians say public schools do not have enough funding to meet their needs.

Learn More
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    Tel: 804-648-5801 or 800-552-9554
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