There’s a serious lack of education support professionals (ESPs) in American schools. Many people don’t understand their importance, so they choose to pursue other fields. Those who are already in education may not value these ESPs enough, leading to lower wages than they deserve.
What do ESPs do anyway? How vital are they to the educational “ecosystem?” Can a school get by without them?
Let’s talk about it. Read on to learn all about what education support professionals do for schools.
Student Support
ESPs provide support to students both inside and outside the classroom. They may work as instructional aides to provide extra help to students who need special attention or support in specific subjects. ESPs also serve as mentors and advocates (alongside teachers and counselors) for students who need extra emotional support.
On that note, education support professionals play a necessary role in supporting students with special needs. They may work with special education teachers and provide one-on-one support to students with unique learning needs. They also make sure the classroom is inclusive.
Classroom Management
ESPs help teachers maintain an environment that’s conducive to learning by helping to manage classroom logistics and preparing materials. This extra support allows teachers to focus more on teaching. They don’t have to worry as much about administrative tasks.
They can also help teachers with students who need extra assistance, such as students who need interpreters. This way, every student gets what they need. The teacher doesn’t have to stop the lesson as often.
If you want to help teachers without being a teacher, this Bay Area program can teach you how to be an ESP.
Safety and Security
Education support professionals keep students and other staff members safe. They monitor the schools and investigate or report on anything that seems amiss. They work as bus monitors, school security officers, and so much more.
During a time when many parents worry about their children’s safety in school, ESPs are there to help.
Nutrition
Children often eat one or more meals at school. Schools are responsible for providing healthy and nutritious meals (with varying degrees of success).
Education support professionals are often the people who are providing meals for students. They may also come up with the school’s meal plans.
ESPs also organize wellness programs, physical education activities, and health education programs. They help teach students about how to grow into healthy adults. Yes, gym and health teachers play a role as well, but you can’t minimize the ESPs.
Education Support Professionals Keep Schools Functioning
We can’t overstate the importance of education support professionals. All education careers are vital, but ESPs rarely get the recognition they deserve. They keep the schools functioning in working order!
If you’ve been looking into education degrees for career development, but being a teacher doesn’t seem right for you, consider becoming an ESP. Starting a career in education can change your life.
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