This award honors outstanding work in the areas of professional practice, Association involvement, community engagement, personal achievement, and the enhancement of the image of support professionals.
Download the Nomination Packet HereAlyce Pope has been named as one of five national finalists for the National Education Association’s Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year.
Pope has four decades of experience working with programs including Head Start and in community development, providing counseling and support to children, adults, and families, many of whom are new to the United States. In addition, she serves as chair of the ESP committees of both the Fairfax Education Association and the Virginia Education Association.
“Over the years, Alyce has helped countless children get the high-quality public education they deserve, and countless families feel that someone is looking out for them,” said Carol Bauer, president of the Virginia Education Association. “She’s a shining example of the incredibly valuable work that education support professionals do in our schools, and Fairfax is a better place for having her.”
ESPs are the bus drivers who get our students to school safely, the custodians who keep our school buildings and grounds clean, the cafeteria workers who ensure our school communities are fed, the paraeducators who meet the needs of our most vulnerable students, and so much more. They are essential members of the educational team who work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs.
“NEA and its three million members are thrilled to recognize the finalists for their strong commitment to public education,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “During the most challenging times, they have worked tirelessly in their schools and beyond to ensure safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for their students, colleagues, and communities.”
The recipient of the 2025 ESP of the Year Award will be announced on March 22nd at the 2025 NEA ESP National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. The award is designed to spotlight the work of education support professionals across the country and honor individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary achievements and dedication to public education.
For more information on the NEA ESP of the Year Award program, including a complete list of the 2025 NEA ESP of the Year nominees, visit www.nea.org/ESPOTY.
Education Support Professionals are critical members of the K-12 and Higher-ed public education workforce.
The VEA and NEA offer numerous avenues to build your skills and advance in the profession.
Teacher shortages are a serious issue across the country. Here in Virginia, there are currently over 3,648 unfilled teaching positions. (FY23)
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