Arizona Education Association

Fall 2013

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ESProfessional ESPecially for Kids Award This award recognizes extraordinary efforts by classified education support professionals on behalf of young people. Linda Schnelle was honored during the AEA Salute to Excellence luncheon on April 27, 2013. Linda Schnelle Flowing Wells Education Association Linda Schnelle is more than just a special education assistant. She is an integral part of the community at Centennial Elementary School. Within the classroom, she organizes class materials, provides direct instruction, assists with bi- monthly testing, and enters testing data on the computer. Linda does not only work with the special education population. She works with all the students in the school. Her special skills are working with students who have a lack of motivation to learn, as well as dealing with behavior outbursts. Linda also serves as an after-school tutor to students in grades 3-6. Watching Linda work effectively with 15-20 students at differing grade levels is truly a testament to her skills and her desire to see all children learn. Linda makes sure that each child feels special and loved. Linda is involved not just with the students, but the school and community at large. She coordinates the American Heart Association Jump-A-Thon and Field Day and the Pennies for Patients with Leukemia and Lymphoma. 2 Education Support Professionals Day is November 20, 2013 ESP Action Be sure to check out these other stories for more opportunities to get involved and take action. 6 At the Capitol 9 Around AEA 40 What's Being Said About… Education Support Professionals Fall.13advo.indd 16 Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day focuses on the importance of these school employees, who take care of students every day, making sure they have the tools they need to succeed in school. Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day was first celebrated in 1987, after NEA's Representative Assembly called for the creation of a way to honor the contributions of school support staff. In 2003, Karen Mahurin, then president of NEA's National Council of Education Support Professional (NCESP) members, led a successful campaign at the NEA Representative Assembly to change the ESP formal name from "Education Support Personnel" to "Education Support Professionals." "The name change to 'professional' acknowledges the major contribution ESPs make to children and public education every day," said Mahurin, a secretary with 22 years of experience. "We impact the lives of children every day in our own special and professional ways." The name reflects a growing pride in the valuable role ESPs play throughout America's public schools. Today's support professionals provide invaluable services that enable students to learn in positive, supportive environments. ESPs are equal and essential partners in the education process. "By participating in Education Support Professionals Day, we will be joining millions of people nationwide in celebrating the hard work, dedication, and invaluable services our education support professionals provide," said NEA President Dennis Van Roekel. "They are unsung heroes who drive our students to school, help them cross the street, provide them with nutritious meals, serve as partners in educating our children, and keep school buildings safe, operational, and clean." 2 16 Fall 2013 x AEA Advocate 8/7/13 2:35 PM

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