Baltimore County Educator Named Education Support Professional of Year
On Friday, the Maryland State Education Association (MSEA), the union representing 75,000 educators across the state, announced Meghan Anderson, special education paraeducator at Parkville Middle School in Baltimore County, as MSEA’s 2024 Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year today. MSEA President Paul Lemle and MSEA Vice President Nikki Woodward honored Anderson on Sept. 6 at her school.
MSEA’s award recognizes the contributions of ESPs to their schools, communities, and their profession. ESPs are often overlooked but essential people in the school community. They are special education paraeducators, building and grounds custodians, bus drivers, technology specialists, front office staff, food service providers, and more. The award is presented to a member of MSEA who demonstrates outstanding accomplishments and reflects the contributions of ESPs to public education and their community.
In her work, Anderson helps students develop essential life skills, and as a member of the school’s Crisis Response Team, she implements strategies and determines responses to ensure that students and staff are safe. Anderson advocates for her colleagues as a building representative for the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County. In addition, Anderson co-sponsors the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club to empower students to do good in the world, she supports and engages students through the annual 8th grade graduation T-shirt design contest, and she coaches badminton and tennis after regular school hours. During the pandemic, she connected with and engaged students by frequently dying her hair different colors. She has served as a member of BCPS’ Safe and Supportive Environment Advisory Group and her school’s parent-teacher organization.
“Meghan plays an outsized role in creating an environment that’s good for students, educators, and her community,” Lemle said. “Whether she’s one-on-one helping individual students, leading after-school activities, or advocating for her colleagues, Meghan is making a difference.”
“Congratulations to Meghan Anderson on this well-deserved honor,” Baltimore County Superintendent Myriam Rogers said. “Our paraeducators play a powerful role in supporting student success and Ms. Anderson’s unwavering dedication, commitment to excellence, and positive impact on students and staff is felt throughout Parkville Middle School.”
MSEA receives nominations from across the state for the annual award, which is part of MSEA’s broader work to elevate respect and appreciation for ESPs.