Local Education Support Professional finalist for National Education Association Education Support Professional of the Year Award

Erica Nungaray began her career at Harney Middle School as a Specialized Programs Teacher. She was then promoted to her current role as School Registrar, first at Harney and now at Las Vegas High School where her bright smile is often the first one parents and kids see each day. Erica’s certification as a Spanish/bilingual translator is incredibly valuable at her Title 1 school, where the needs of students can extend beyond the world of academics. Erica views the Clark County School District (CCSD) as her community and not simply her employer. She volunteers countless hours to ensure every student she interacts with has a great public school experience. Outside of her school site, whether it’s volunteering on several School Organizational Teams (SOT) or serving on the Nevada State Education Association’s Board of Directors, Erica remains fully engaged in improving the lives of those around her at both the state and local levels. 

“Erica’s genuine passion for public education and elevating the voices of Nevada support professionals is inspiring to not only myself, but to our members who have the pleasure of working with her,” said  Nevada State Education Association President Dawn Etcheverry. “Both inside and outside of her school site, she epitomizes the phrase “union strong” through her unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of our students, colleagues, and the entire education community.”

“NEA and its three million members congratulate the finalists on their extraordinary achievements and dedication to public education,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “They have demonstrated a relentless commitment to the needs of their students and communities and are clearly passionate about their work.”

ESPs are the bus drivers who get our students to school safely. They are the custodians who keep our school buildings and grounds clean, the cafeteria workers who ensure our school communities are fed, the paraeducators who meet the needs of our most vulnerable students, and so much more. They are essential members of the educational team who work at every level of education—from preschool to university graduate programs.

The NEA ESP of the Year award is designed to spotlight the work of education support professionals across the country and honor individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary achievements and dedication to public education.  

Erica Nungaray is one of five finalists from across the country. The recipient of the 2024 ESP of the Year Award will be announced on March 23^rd at the 2024 NEA ESP National Conference in Las Vegas.