As New York honors support staff on School-Related Professionals Day Nov. 17, efforts are under way in Washington, D.C., to provide national recognition for the daily contributions of SRPs.

After years of organizing and lobbying of state lawmakers by NYSUT members and union staff, the first annual recognition day was held in 2007.

It continues to honor the daily contributions of SRPs to student performance and closing the achievement gap.

"That well-deserved honor was won by the work of thousands," said NYSUT Vice President Kathleen Donahue, whose office oversees SRP issues for the union. "Now we will be part of an effort by our two national allies to bring that recognition to our colleagues across the country."

The American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association are supporting a bill to create a "National Classified School Employees of the Year Award." The awards would recognize SRPs' outstanding contributions to schools and students' lives.

Under the proposed legislation, a worker from each of nine occupational categories would receive an award and national recognition for work excellence from the secretary of education.

Those job categories include paraprofessionals, clerical services, custodial and maintenance services, transportation, food service, skilled trades, health and student services, security and technical services.

Go to www.nea.org/home/ns/36405.htm for additional information.