Seven other ESPs recognized as finalists, semifinalists for ESP of the Year
Education Minnesota also recognized four other ESPs from across Minnesota as finalists and three others as semifinalists for ESP of the Year. There were 32 nominations this year. Of those 32, eight chose to submit portfolios that included essay responses and recommendation letters. The recipient of the ESP of the Year award is recognized at a reception at Education Minnesota headquarters and at their school later in the year.
2025 finalists
Toni Corraro, special education paraprofessional, Farmington Area Schools
Through building trust and fostering independence, Corraro creates an environment where students feel seen and heard. Corraro’s work has contributed to a more inclusive school culture, fostering relationships between the special education and general education students.
“I’ve built strong relationships with the bus drivers that transport our special education students,” Corraro said in nomination materials. “These interactions help create a consistent and caring experience for our students. When everyone involved in a child’s day is working together, the student benefits from a sense of stability and trust.”
Kristina Ersfeld, building nurse, Farmington Area Schools
As a building nurse, Ersfeld is responsible for the health and safety of 600 students, including many students who don’t always have access to medical care outside of school. She connects these families with health care resources and provides information about food, housing or medical cost assistance, if needed.
Ersfeld’s colleagues praised her commitment to holistic health for both students and staff. “Kristy is an advocate for student wellbeing beyond the nurse’s office,” said Vanessa Bersuch, kindergarten paraprofessional at Farmington Elementary School. “She leads health education efforts, ensures compliance with safety protocols and steps in whenever help is needed.”
Jennifer Meyer, special education ESP, Rochester Public Schools
Meyer started with Rochester in 2018. Since 2022, she has worked at Century High School as a special education ESP. She believes effective education is rooted in presence, care and genuine human connection. With every student, she seeks to build trust and strengthen their sense of agency, proactively communicating with teachers to ensure that each student’s needs are met.
“Jennifer has a unique ability to accurately assess a student’s potential, develop that potential, and effectively hold them accountable through direction and encouragement,” said Michael D. Dusso, head coach of the Rochester Raiders adaptive soccer team, which Meyer also works with.
Amanda Phenix, special education paraprofessional, Waconia Public Schools
Phenix has been a special education paraprofessional for 20 years. In her work with students in the EBD program, Phenix says that developing positive, lasting relationships is essential: “It can take weeks, even months, to earn their trust; but once it’s there, they begin to open up … and find success,” she said.
“Amanda has a remarkable gift for connecting with students who have behavioral needs,” said Olivia Lemke, an emotional/behavioral disorder teacher for Waconia Public Schools. “Her ability to build strong relationships has led parents, on multiple occasions, to request that she continue supporting their child as they transition to high school—a true testament to her impact.”
2025 Semifinalists
Ivon Gonzalez, paraprofessional, Escuela Bilingüe Green Central
Gonzalez has worked for Minneapolis Public Schools for 25 years. She said her mission is to be a role model and a trusted adult for students so that they look forward to going to school. “I wanted to be someone I didn’t have, that friendly face I could approach or talk to when I needed to,” she said in nomination materials.
“Ms. Gonzalez goes above and beyond every single day,” said Norma Alejandro-Mattson, assistant principal at Green Central. “She approaches every task with dedication, professionalism and heart.”
Mary Navarro, special education paraprofessional, United South Central High School
Navarro is a 20-year educator who has spent 19 of those years in the special education room at United South Central. In her work, she focuses on developing student agency and advocating for their needs to ensure that they have the resources to be successful. “I listen to the students when they have something to say, as sometimes that is what kids need…someone to show them they matter,” she said in nomination materials.
Navarro has served as a mentor for new paraprofessionals and in many leadership roles in her union. In June 2024, she became president of her local and will serve on the negotiating committee for the first time.
Shannon VerDuin, print room professional, Stillwater School District
VerDuin strives to make students at Stillwater Area High School feel welcome. She has started several clubs for students to help connect those with similar interests. She began with K-pop club about 10 years ago, but eventually expanded to include Anime Club and the Asian Student Union.
VerDuin’s print room is decorated with Hello Kitty plushies and other Sanrio characters, which she uses to connect with staff and students alike. “Everyone at SAHS knows me as the Hello Kitty person … [the collection] has been a connection-maker, especially with [students with autism],” she said.
