ESP Bill of Rights

Michigan ESP Bill of Rights

Because One Job Should Be Enough

From paraprofessionals and bus drivers to custodians, secretaries and more, Michigan’s Education Support Professionals (ESPs) play a critical role in our local public schools.

No matter the role, hardworking school support staff contribute to student success — and they deserve to be treated with the respect and dignity they have earned.

That’s why Michigan’s Education Support Professionals are calling on elected officials, employers, school boards and other decision-makers to support the following critical reforms:

  • A thriving wage that can support a middle-class family, so school support staff workers can put food on the table, shop at their local small businesses and save for their children’s future.
  • Good healthcare and leave benefits, including full-family health, dental and vision coverage; time off for illness, parental needs and personal days; disability and life insurance; and unemployment benefits for 10- and 11-month employees.
  • Stronger workplace safety standards with clear safety protocols; appropriate supplies; zero exposure to hazardous materials; safely maintained equipment; a workplace free of physical, verbal or emotional abuse; and whistleblower protections.
  • A secure and dignified retirement with post-retirement insurance benefits, all years of service counted toward pension benefits, and a payout of all accumulated leave days to a 403(b) or 401(k) account upon retirement.
  • Professional development and advancement opportunities, including regular training, onboarding assistance and the opportunity to earn continuing education credits.
  • A secure job they can count on, with a reasonable assurance of employment; a shorter and fairer probationary period; and protections against job privatization.

ESPs are equal partners in all aspects of public education, and they deserve rESPect. After all — one job should be enough.

Do you agree? Please take a moment to endorse the Michigan ESP Bill of Rights!

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