Rochester’s Monica Eggert is the 2025-26 Education Support Professional of the Year
For more information, contact:
HEAVEN KEANE
651-247-4195 (cell)
ST. PAUL, Minnesota. Nov. 1, 2025 – Monica Eggert, a special education support professional at Rochester Alternative Learning Center, is the 2025-26 Education Minnesota Education Support Professional of the Year.
Eggert is in her 13th year working for Rochester Public Schools. She began as a substitute ESP for all grade levels, then worked as a middle and high school ESP before stepping into her current role as a special education ESP at Rochester Alternative Learning Center.
Eggert focuses on building trust with her students, beginning every morning by greeting every single student by name. “I believe this consistent recognition helps build a sense of belonging,” she said in nomination materials for the award. “It’s these tiny, repeat moments that I know will create the biggest ripple effect in our students’ lives…this is how trust grows.”
Eggert’s colleagues say her unique approach allows her to connect with every student, no matter how challenging. “Monica brings an alternative mindset and deep empathy to this work—qualities that are essential in supporting such a vulnerable population, where a positive relationship with a caring adult can change [that student’s] trajectory,” said Sweta Patel, community school site coordinator at Rochester Alternative Learning Center. “(Eggert) makes time for people, whether they’re her students or her colleagues.”
Her colleagues also praised her collaborative and supportive approach. “She doesn’t just complete the tasks of her job description; she goes over and beyond to make sure everyone is in a good spot and feels supported,” said Beth Rojas, a teacher at RALC. “We all want Monica on our team because her team is the team that gets it done and is always there for others.”
In addition to her work in the classroom, Eggert is deeply involved in several organizations that help military communities, including the POW/MIA Riders, a group dedicated to recognizing prisoners of war and those missing in action.
As the 2025-26 ESP of the Year, Eggert will receive an iPad or Chromebook and a $1,200 honorarium. She will also receive an all-expenses paid trip to the National Education Association ESP Conference next spring.
The recipient of the Education Support Professional of the Year award is selected by a five-member committee that includes two leaders of Education Minnesota, the executive director of Education Minnesota, a past ESP of the Year winner and a representative of an external organization.
About Education Minnesota
Education Minnesota is the voice for professional educators and students. Education Minnesota’s members include teachers and education support professionals in Minnesota’s public school districts, faculty members at Minnesota’s community and technical colleges and University of Minnesota campuses in Duluth and Crookston, retired educators and student teachers. Education Minnesota is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and AFL-CIO.
