Education Support Professionals (ESPs) from the Denver Metro area gathered in Edgewater on January 29 for the first ESP Town Hall organized by the ESP Council. Community members and parents also attended the event, which focused on challenges faced by ESPs in their work, organizing efforts, and collective bargaining.
During the meeting, participants discussed the need to raise awareness about the roles that ESPs play in schools. One host stated, “if you ask the average person, ‘who educates your kid?’ They’ll most likely say, ‘a teacher.’ And they won’t think of the bus driver who gets them to school, the nutrition worker who feeds them, or the para in their classroom.” The town hall aimed to bring together ESPs from different local groups along with community members to address this lack of recognition.
The discussion at the event also covered actions that could help improve working conditions for ESPs. The ESP Council is backing a campaign for an ESP Bill of Rights in Colorado. This proposed initiative would offer greater protections and recognition for ESP positions throughout Colorado’s public education system. Organizers said it will be a key focus of future town halls and ongoing council activities. They believe that collective action among ESPs statewide can lead to positive changes for staff, students, and communities.
Those interested in learning more about the ESP Bill of Rights or joining the council are encouraged to contact New Growth Organizer Matthew Holloway at mholloway@coloradoea.org.
