PRINCE FREDERICK, MD, Sept. 17, 2025—The Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff (CAESS) is pleased to announce that the Maryland State Education Association (MSEA), the union representing 75,000 educators across the state, selected Stephanie Patterson, secretary at the CHESPAX Environmental Education Program in Calvert County, MSEA’s 2025 Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year.
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 front office staff, special education paraeducators, building and grounds custodians, bus drivers, technology specialists, 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.
“Stephanie’s love for her work is so obvious to anyone who comes across the CHESPAX Environmental Education Program,” said MSEA President Paul Lemle. “She supports students and families along with colleagues; her peers all benefit from her diligence and enthusiasm.”
Patterson’s work assures that students enjoy rich learning experiences to engage them in environmental and historical exploration and study. Her meticulous preparations give students opportunities for broader life experiences that benefit their community. She cultivates and maintains strong relationships with the community resources and organizations that partner in nurturing the students. Previously, for nearly a decade she co-sponsored the Windy Hill Middle School Girls Club, which encouraged and empowered close to 200 girls during the tumultuous middle school years so they would be better prepared for personal and academic challenges. She volunteers in the community to support tourism and public education, and she supports youngsters’ development through the Girl Scouts. Patterson is a leader among her 800 CAESS colleagues, representing them, inspiring and elevating the voices of her ESP peers to improve working conditions and recognize ESP contributions to education.
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.
