Educational Support Professionals are powerful advocates for the entire education family and for the well-being of children everywhere.  ESP members are on the front lines in every school district throughout the state, working hand in hand with teachers and administrators. 

The National Education Association began enrolling Education Support Professionals as members in 1982. Most ESP members worked primarily as teacher aides and school secretaries, but things have changed. During the past few years the Memphis Education Association and Tennessee Education Association has expanded membership rights and opportunities for Tennessee`s ESP in a big way!

Today, MEA, TEA and NEA proudly represent over 350,000 professionals working in classrooms, as building and grounds custodians, security officers, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, payroll clerks, machine operators, in health rooms and libraries, and more - from kindergarten through higher education!

Benefits for ESP Who Become MEA/TEA Members 

• Respect that comes with the support and backing of the largest, most effective employee organization in the country - NEA and its affiliates

• Support of professional MEA UniServ staff to help members when needed

• Strong, effective representation if employment problems arise

• Leadership training for members and their local association

• Professional development training on issues that affect ESP members

• Liability insurance protection - $1,000,000 in on-the-job coverage is provided with membership

• Assistance in winning better pay, working conditions, job safety, and health benefits

• Lobbying representation on issues important to schools and school employees

• Studies and publications from MEA/TEA/NEA to keep us knowledgeable about education and our careers

• Discounted insurance plans (home, life, investment) designed specifically for members

• TEA/NEA discounts on credit cards, hotel/motel rates, travel, and more for members