2023-24 ATPE Lookbook by Association of Texas Professional Educators

ATPE PUTS TEXAS EDUCATORS FIRST ATPE.ORG | (800) 777-ATPE

A MESSAGE FROM ATPE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHANNON HOLMES It isn’t easy being an educator in today’s world. Every year, you face new challenges, juggling the needs of your students with ever-evolving expectations, all while striving to do more with fewer resources. At ATPE, we recognize the immense dedication and hard work that you put into shaping the future of Texas, and we are here to support you every step of the way. As the leading educators’ organization in Texas, ATPE is dedicated to serving the needs of teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, and all public education employees. We understand that you have choices when it comes to professional organizations, so we’ve highlighted five compelling reasons why you should join ATPE. At ATPE, we understand your struggles and the sacrifices you make for your students. We work tirelessly around the clock to advocate on your behalf and provide you with the resources that protect you, your rights, and your career. We hope you will consider joining us in this collective mission to make a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for Texas education. Thank you for your dedication, passion, and commitment to the students of Texas. Sincerely,

Dr. Shannon Holmes Executive Director 2

TOP 5 REASONS TO JOIN ATPE

3 4

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING PORTAL

This is a free member benefit that provides access to a treasure trove of engaging content, including online courses and webinars that allow you to earn continuing professional education (CPE) credits. Stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices in education through our learning portal. (See page 8)

LEADERSHIP ATPE

If you aspire to be a leader in your field, our dynamic one-year Leadership ATPE program is designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and best practices needed to serve your association, school district, and community. It’s a unique opportunity for professional growth. (See page 9)

MEMBER LEGAL SERVICES

Our Member Legal Services Department is dedicated to helping you navigate the employment-related questions or issues you may encounter as an educator. Speak with one of our experienced attorneys to protect your rights and career. (See page 10)

GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS & ADVOCACY

ATPE Governmental Relations tirelessly advocates for educators in Austin and Washington, D.C. We provide advocacy tools that empower you to stay informed and engage with lawmakers on issues that affect public education. Your voice matters, and we are here to amplify it. (See page 14)

ATPE SUMMIT

Our annual ATPE Summit offers a unique opportunity for professional learning and volunteer leader training. It’s a chance to network with fellow educators and actively participate in ATPE’s annual business meeting. Together, we shape the future of our organization. (See page 20)

2023-24 ATPE STATE PRESIDENT: JAYNE SERNA Jayne Serna is the 2023-24 ATPE state president and an adjunct history professor at Austin Community College. She taught secondary English and social studies for 29 years, is a James Madison Memorial Fellow, and is a long-time Advanced Placement U.S. History rater. She has been actively involved in local government issues and founded a nonprofit organization that serves children in her community. Jayne has served in every local ATPE and officer role for Region 13 ATPE, including as a campus rep and membership coordinator for her local unit, Leander ATPE.

FUN FACTS

Jayne earned a bachelor of arts in English from Angelo State University, a master of arts in history from Texas State University, and a master of education in professional school counseling from Lamar University.

“I am a certified soccer referee, and I run a soccer league that I started with my husband.” “I sing, play piano, and occasionally drum on the worship team at church. I try only to do such things in places where forgiveness is valued.” 3

A BRIEF HISTORY OF ATPE

1975 | UNIFICATION The Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA) unites with a national teacher union, the National Education Association (NEA). Disillusioned members leave to join the Association of Texas Educators (ATE) or Texas Professional Educators (TPE), two groups formed in response to the TSTA/NEA unification.

1980 | MERGING FOR SUCCESS

YOUR ALLY. YOUR VOICE. The story of the Association of Texas Professional Educators began around kitchen tables in Dallas and Houston. Dedicated Texas educators recognized the need for an association that reflected their professionalism and commitment to the children of Texas. Thanks to the forward-thinking members from the Association of Texas Educators (ATE) and Texas Professional Educators (TPE), ATPE has been a champion, an ally, and a voice for Texas educators for the past 40-plus years and is today the largest educator association in Texas.

On April 1, 1980, ATE and TPE officially merge to become the Association of Texas Professional Educators, or ATPE. ATPE adopts its first set of bylaws and welcomes Mike Morrow as its first executive director and Alafair Hammett as its first state president.

1981 | QUALITY MAKES THE GRADE ATPE News, previously a newsletter, relaunches as a magazine focused on covering Texas education trends, news, issues, and more. The quarterly magazine has received state and national awards for its content and design.

1988 | MEMBERSHIP MILESTONE With membership at 45,500, ATPE becomes the nation’s largest nonunion educators’ association and a model for similar organizations across the United States.

45,500

1992 | A VOICE IN D.C.

2011 | REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

ATPE and 11 other independent educators’ associations form a loose coalition in order to provide the groups with a presence in Washington, D.C.

ATPE members from across Texas come together July 20-23, 2011, to attend the inaugural ATPE Summit in Austin. The theme: “Reach New Heights.”

1993 | GROWING AND GROWING With more than 62,000 members, ATPE becomes the largest educators’ association in Texas, a distinction that it has held nearly every year since. The same year, ATPE debuts its first professional development program for educators.

ATPE becomes the LARGEST Educator Association IN TEXAS

2012 | TEACH THE VOTE ATPE launches TeachtheVote.org to keep educators informed about elections and legislation that affects Texas public education.

2014 | YOUR ALLY. YOUR VOICE.

1996 | ENTERING THE DIGITAL AGE ATPE becomes the first educators’ group in Texas to launch its own website.

ATPE adopts a new logo incorporating a single star that symbolizes the contributions of ATPE volunteers and the tag line: Your Ally. Your Voice.

1997 | THE BATTLE BEGINS

2019 | MAKING HISTORY

ATPE secures legislative sponsors for a record 21 bills submitted to the 75th Texas Legislature and defeats the first real legislative attempt to pass private school vouchers.

Thanks in part to the mobilization of Texas educators at the 2018 polls, the 86th Texas Legislature becomes known as the “Session of Public Education.” This year sees ATPE help secure the passage of historic school finance bill House Bill 3 as part of an $11.6 billion school finance measure.

1999 | LEGISLATIVE VICTORY ATPE helps secure a $3,000 pay raise for Texas teachers, librarians, nurses, and counselors.

2000 | MEMBERSHIP MILESTONE ATPE welcomes the new millennium and reaches 100,000 members across Texas.

2020 | ANSWERING TOUGH QUESTIONS

100,000

ATPE launches the first COVID-19 resource center for Texas educators days before Gov. Greg Abbott closes Texas public schools for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year.

2001 | LOBBYING EFFORTS ATPE successfully lobbies for the creation of the first statewide health insurance program for public school employees.

2006 | LEADER CENTRAL ATPE revamps its website to better serve its rising membership and creates Leader Central in order to support its volunteer leaders.

2022 | A DECADE OF TEACHING THE VOTE ATPE’s TeachtheVote.org celebrates its 10th anniversary. In the 10 years since its inception, more than 1.1 million users have visited the website to research candidates and stay up to date on Texas education news.

10 5

WHY ATPE IS THE NO. 1 CHOICE OF TEXAS EDUCATORS ATPE is proud to support our members with benefits that set us apart from other educator organizations. We know that educators have a choice when joining a professional organization, so here are a few reasons why we’re the leading educator association in Texas and one of the largest independent educator associations in the country.

ATPE BY THE NUMBERS:

NEARLY

90,000

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS ON EVERYTHING FROM AIRFARE TO PRESCRIPTION DRUGS,

SAVING MEMBERS MORE THAN

$1,300 A YEAR ON AVERAGE

SUPPORT FROM ALMOST

2,300 VOLUNTEERS IN ALL

ESC REGIONS OF TEXAS

MEMBERS ACROSS 1,200+ TEXAS ISDS AND CHARTERS

UP TO

$8 MILLION IN PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE SUBJECT TO POLICY LIMITS* MORE THAN

12 LOBBYISTS PROFESSIONAL

IN AUSTIN AND WASHINGTON, D.C

TRACKED 982 BILLS AND COVERED MORE THAN 175 HEARINGS DURING THE 87TH TEXAS LEGISLATURE

STAFF ATTORNEY POSITIONS MORE THAN ANY OTHER TEXAS EDUCATORS’ ASSOCIATION**

MORE THAN

180

TEACHTHEVOTE.ORG,

ON-DEMAND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES

1 MILLION TOTAL SITE VISITORS

AVAILABLE THROUGH THE PROFESSIONAL LEARNING PORTAL

ENGAGED EDUCATORS THROUGH

ATPE’S COMPREHENSIVE ADVOCACY WEBSITE WITH OVER

DURING THE 2022 ELECTION CYCLE, CANDIDATES RECEIVING ATPE-PAC AND/OR ATPE DIRECT (A DIRECT EXPENDITURE PAC) CONTRIBUTIONS

WON OR ADVANCED IN 85% OF THEIR RACES.

*THE EDUCATORS PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY IS UNDERWRITTEN BY NATIONAL UNION FIRE INSURANCE CO. OF PITTSBURGH, PA. ALL COVERAGE IS SUBJECT TO THE EXPRESS TERMS OF THE MASTER INSURANCE POLICY ISSUED TO ATPE AND KEPT ON FILE AT THE ATPE STATE OFFICE. Coverage applies to an insured’s activities within his/her professional capacity and does not apply to activities that predate the coverage period. View insurance policy details at atpe.org/protection. Eligibility for ATPE membership benefits is contingent upon ATPE’s receipt of the annual membership dues amount for your appropriate membership category. A disruption in payments to an authorized payment plan may result in discontinuation of such benefits, including cancellation of insurance coverage for the entire membership year retroactive to Aug. 1 or your membership date. ATPE reserves the right to determine eligibility for the appropriate membership category. The membership year runs from Aug. 1–July 31. **Staff attorney services are provided separate from the Educators Professional Liability Insurance Program.

THE ATPE PROFESSIONAL LEARNING PORTAL: LEARN AND EARN ON YOUR SCHEDULE The ATPE Professional Learning Portal is an amazing member resource for earning the continuing professional education (CPE) credits required to maintain your Texas educator certification—and there are now over 180 on-demand courses available at no additional cost as part of your annual membership! The PL Portal offers a variety of engaging content, including online courses and webinars you can take or view to earn CPE credit. Texas educators holding a standard certificate must renew their certificates every five years. To renew a standard certificate, classroom teachers must have completed 150 hours of CPE, and administrative and/or student services certificate holders must complete 200 hours. You can track your CPE hours and certificates through the portal, making it easy to log both ATPE- and nonATPE-provided CPE experiences. All your records will be in one place when it’s time to renew your certificate.

Visit ATPE.ORG/CPE to learn more and earn CPE credit on your own schedule. ATPE is registered with the State Board for Educator Certification as an approved provider of CPE.

CHECK OUT OVER 180 COURSES ON THE ATPE PROFESSIONAL LEARNING PORTAL TODAY! 2 GEN ATPE COURSES

GEARED TOWARD EDUCATORS AGES 30 AND YOUNGER 4 COURSES COVERING

EDUCATORS’ LEGAL CONCERNS 5 COURSES GEARED TOWARD

EDUCATORS TEACHING GIFTEDAND-TALENTED STUDENTS 7 COURSES FOCUSING ON

EDUCATOR WELLNESS AND COMBATING BURNOUT 11 COURSES FOCUSED ON

TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM 8 COURSES PRESENTED AT THE

ATPE SUMMIT 100+ COURSES PRESENTED AT

SXSW EDU

LEADERSHIP ATPE DISCOVER YOUR POTENTIAL Leadership ATPE is a dynamic one-year program designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and best practices needed to serve ATPE, their school districts, and their communities. “I wanted to make sure that I represented the organization, educators, and even students the best that I could,” says Stephanie Stoebe, a fourth grade teacher in Round Rock ISD and Region 13 ATPE director. Participants attend two expense-paid weekend retreats, where they receive training from experts in the fields of education, advocacy, nonprofit management, and more. The program has empowered alumni to pursue local and region leadership roles within ATPE, advocate for public education before lawmakers, and participate in SXSW EDU panels.

2023-24 LEADERSHIP ATPE COHORT Lena Angel, Katy Beth Auble, Industrial Abigail Baiza, IDEA Public Schools Kiree Bins, Killeen Davina Carter, Midland Eva Dickey, Paris Shagufta Ellam, Round Rock Jesus Garza, La Joya Jay Guerrero, Cypress-Fairbanks

Amanda Hendon, Abilene Maegan Holycross, Birdville Jordyn Livingston, New Diana Sarah Mayne, El Paso Taylor Millard, Henderson Aiesha Odutayo, Houston Brooke Anna Roberts, Corsicana Dedra Robertson, Katy Felicia Robinson, Dallas

WHAT LEADERSHIP ATPE ALUMNI HAVE TO SAY “Leadership ATPE [gave] me the opportunity to make more connections with educators, along with being able to see how state officers serve the organization.” —Mandy Vahrenkamp, Bloomington

“After I completed the program, I felt I was ready to run for region office. All those leadership skills I gained gave me the courage to branch out.” —Clarice Cross, Plano

“We became family over the course of our first weekend together. And, as I think about my experience with ATPE from the beginning, it is all about family. The family dynamic is what continues to drive my dedication to the organization.” —Michael Renteria, Amarillo

APPLYING FOR LEADERSHIP ATPE The application window for the next Leadership ATPE cohort will open in spring 2025 and be announced in ATPE publications and at atpe.org.

Visit ATPE.ORG/LEADERSHIP-ATPE for more details. If you have questions, please contact ATPE Membership Director Joy England at jengland@atpe.org.

A PORT IN A STORM A LOOK AT THE ATPE MEMBER LEGAL SERVICES PROGRAM The member benefits facilitated by the ATPE Member Legal Services Department are highly regarded across the state by teachers and other public school employees who have chosen to join our professional organization. The program, which comprises both an insured professional liability insurance and employment rights protection benefit, as well as access to a team of in-house staff attorneys, offers eligible ATPE members an affordable opportunity to access job-related legal support should the need arise.* The benefits are provided at no cost beyond the annual membership dues.

PRIVATE-PRACTICE ATTORNEYS AND LAW FIRMS

 AUSTIN-AREA



HOUSTON



RIO GRANDE VALLEY

 DFW



EL PASO



EAST TEXAS

 PLUS STATE OFFICE

ATPE’s provision of member legal services started modestly: The association’s first executive director, Mike Morrow, met attorney Jay Brim, founding partner of Brim & Brim P.C., in ATPE’s first office building in downtown Austin. Brim had just opened his own practice in that same building after having served as a staff attorney to the Texas commissioner of education from 1977 to 1979. Brim and Morrow saw the beginnings of a great partnership. In October 1980, the firm began representing ATPE members. Brim’s firm grew, and eventually ATPE started hiring its own staff attorneys to facilitate the program and additionally represent members. “That is when it got really exciting,” says Doug Rogers, who retired as ATPE executive director in 2013. “Exciting” is one way to describe a program that now encompasses nine staff attorneys, a statewide network of a dozen private-practice firms (including Brim’s firm), and a liability insurance benefit of up to $8 million, subject to policy limits. But “a port in a storm” might be the way ATPE State President Jayne Serna would describe it based on the experience she and her late husband Gabriel had with the program. According to Jayne, Gabriel was a second-career teacher, and he was in his third year of teaching high school Spanish when he began to experience serious medical complications. He was also unexpectedly put on a growth plan right before Thanksgiving. Although Gabriel was initially unconcerned, Jayne urged him to call ATPE. After doing so, Gabriel called Jayne back and said, “Honey, you were right.” Gabriel struggled with his health challenges and employment difficulties that caused him a great

“ATPE gave him options. He had agency, which is really meaningful in a time when your body’s failing. It was important for him to have that sense of control over his situation when he wasn’t having much control in other parts of his life.” —Jayne Serna, ATPE State President

deal of trouble. Along the way, he spoke with his ATPE-provided attorney regularly, receiving guidance about how to respond to each curveball thrown at him at school. According to Jayne, ATPE advised and helped Gabriel throughout this trying time. “He was able to end his career with dignity, which wasn’t going to happen with the way the school district was headed,” Jayne says. “He became a little healthier and really got to enjoy some of the time he had left. “What I will appreciate eternally— and what I told ATPE staff—is that Gabriel got to make choices about how things were handled. ATPE gave him options. He had agency, which is really meaningful in a time when your body’s failing. It was important for him to have that sense of control over his situation when he wasn’t having much control in other parts of his life.” One of the hallmarks of the program is its transparency. The terms of the policy are available at atpe.org, so a member can see whether their particular situation is eligible for assistance. Because the policy is provided through an insured benefit, membership

must be established before the educator’s employment-related activities occur in order for them to receive assistance with a particular situation (it’s akin to car insurance—you can’t purchase insurance after the wreck). Various factors, such as complexity and the involvement of other ATPE members, determine whether a member’s case is handled by a staff attorney or referred to an attorney in the private-practice network. In addition to providing individual representation to members, ATPE staff attorneys provide general legal information to educators and contribute to the stewardship of Texas education law: • Staff attorneys work with ATPE Governmental Relations to research, review, and recommend laws and regulations that directly affect Texas educators. • Staff attorneys write articles, present webinars, and appear on The ATPE Podcast to provide general information about the Texas Education Code, federal employment law, and other statutes and regulations that affect Texas educators’ employment. • Staff attorneys serve on planning committees for and make presentations at the School Law Conference presented by the State Board of Texas. • ATPE has also filed amicus briefs in support of litigation affecting educators’ legal rights. More than anything, though, the ATPE Member Legal Services Department talks to eligible ATPE members on tough days— sometimes on the worst days of their careers. Having someone to call—and knowing that accessing help won’t result in financial peril— is invaluable.

*Eligibility, terms, conditions, and limitations apply. Visit atpe.org/protection to view important disclosures and current program details. Staff attorney services are provided separate from the Educators Professional Liability Insurance Program. 11

It Pays to Be a Member of ATPE Joining ATPE is one of the best investments you’ll make during your career. Not only is your ATPE membership chock-full of valuable professional benefits, but also membership saves you money on everything from travel to entertainment. As an ATPE member, you’ll enjoy special discounts and exclusive offers on:

 Office and classroom supplies  Degree programs  Vacations and cruises  Theme park admission  And more!

Discover all the ways ATPE can save you money at atpe.org/discounts!

ATPE MEMBERS MAKE THEIR VOICES HEARD AT THE CAPITOL ATPE members can take part in our biennial ATPE at the Capitol event in Austin to kick off the legislative session. During the 2023 ATPE at the Capitol (AATC) event, 218 members from around the state gathered to meet with their legislators to discuss a variety of education issues. They also heard from a panel of lawmakers that included Rep. James Talarico (D–Austin) and Rep. Ken King (R–Canadian). Members attended a fundraiser for the ATPE Political Action Committee (ATPE-PAC) and were able to buy promotional items, which contributed to their PAC donation totals. (Learn more about ATPE-PAC on page 18). Members also listened to important updates from the ATPE Governmental Relations team and had the opportunity to interact face-to-face with Governmental Relations Director Monty Exter, Senior Lobbyist Mark Wiggins, Lobbyist Tricia Cave, and ATPE’s contract lobbyists. The Governmental Relations team sat in on many of the meetings between members and lawmakers and assisted members when needed as they discussed ATPE’s priorities for the 88th legislative session. “ATPE at the Capitol is hugely important because it’s very clear when you go to the Capitol that they don’t understand education from an educators’ perspective,” ATPE State President Jayne Serna says. “So getting that perspective, they really do want it.” The House and Senate both adopted resolutions from the floors of their respective chambers honoring ATPE members during the event. ATPE state officers met with House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee Chair Giovanni Capriglione about pensions and the Teacher Retirement System. Members also had the opportunity to make a press statement about their visit to ATPE at the Capitol, which was sent by ATPE Marketing & Communications to local publications in the members’ areas.

“It has been a great experience to go visit our legislators and talk about the issues that we’re dealing with every single day.” —Christina Flores, Riesel ISD, Region 12

The event ended with a group photo of all the attendees on the stairs next to the Texas Senate chamber, capping off a busy couple of days advocating for Texas public education.

AMPLIFY YOUR “TEACHER VOICE”: ATPE’S ADVOCACY PROGRAM In addition to providing professional advocacy in Austin and in Washington, D.C., ATPE Governmental Relations creates and maintains several advocacy tools members can use to stay informed and advocate for public education year-round.

“We have the best team lobbying for us.” —Katherine Whitbeck Nacogdoches ATPE, Region 7

HOW WE ADVOCATE FOR MEMBERS IN AUSTIN The ATPE Governmental Relations team— which includes ATPE Executive Director Shannon Holmes, Associate Executive Director Jennifer Mitchell, Governmental Relations Director Monty Exter, Senior Lobbyist Mark Wiggins, Lobbyist Tricia Cave, and several contract lobbyists—are hard at work year-round advocating for public education. During regular and special sessions of the Texas Legislature, they testify and work with lawmakers at the State Capitol to address the needs of public educators across the state both in support of and in opposition to legislation. The ATPE Governmental Relations team also helps elect pro-public education candidates, as well as advocates for members yearround before the State Board of Education, State Board for Educator Certification, Teacher Retirement System, and Texas Education Agency.

HOW WE REPRESENT YOU IN D.C. ATPE is represented in federal governmental relations matters by the law firm of Hance Scarborough LLP. David Pore, a partner in the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, and the point person on ATPE matters, got his start as an ATPE staff lobbyist in the ATPE Governmental Relations department from 2002-04 after serving as a staffer in the Texas Legislature and the U.S. Congress. ATPE is a leader in the fight to reform the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions in Social Security law that reduce the retirement benefits of many Texas educators and other public servants. In December 2022, then-ATPE State President Stacey Ward spoke at the Capitol to explain the urgent need for WEP reform (pictured at right). ATPE and Hance Scarborough also closely monitor and lobby the U.S. House and Senate education committees as well as the U.S. Department of Education on issues such as federal testing and accountability requirements, federal funding for public schools, special education laws, educator preparation, and more.

HOW WE INFORM MEMBERS Our advocacy tools inform members of legislative and regulatory activity affecting education and educators. This begins with the website TeachtheVote.org, where you can find ATPE’s advocacy blog that keeps you up to date on current news regarding education policy, regulatory developments, and election updates. TeachtheVote.org also contains a bill tracking service known as Bills on the Move. This service allows you to track educationrelated bills and view the status of legislation moving through the legislative process, as well as ATPE’s official position on said legislation. ATPE’s lobbyists also use @TeachTheVote on Twitter (X) to post published blogs, retweet important updates and information, and share the current work lobbyists are doing at the State Capitol. ATPE lobbyists Monty Exter (@ATPE_MontyE), Mark Wiggins (@MarkWigginsTX), and Tricia Cave (@tdcave) all have Twitter (X) accounts that members can follow for live updates.

HOW WE INVOLVE MEMBERS Advocacy Central is a tool available to members that allows them to take part in active advocacy campaigns established by the ATPE Governmental Relations team, search for and track other legislation of interest, and connect directly with their state and federal elected officials. Most campaigns on Advocacy Central include sample email messages, tweets, or phone scripts that ATPE’s lobbyists have already prepared for you. You can use the prewritten messages and scripts, customize them by adding your own remarks, or replace our sample text altogether and use your own language instead.

TEACH THE VOTE

Since its 2012 launch, ATPE’s TeachtheVote.org has had more than 2.3 million page views and 1.1 million site visits. This includes 633,822 candidate page views and 979,875 blog page views.

WHAT WE COVER

CURRENT TEACH THE VOTE BLOG CATEGORIES: CONGRESS/FEDERAL

MISCELLANEOUS

CURRICULUM/ INSTRUCTION

PRIVATIZATION/ VOUCHERS

DEREGULATION/ CHARTER SCHOOLS

RETIREMENT/TRS/ SOCIAL SECURITY

EDUCATOR COMPENSATION/BENEFITS

SCHOOL FINANCE

EDUCATOR PREPARATION/ CERTIFICATION

TEA/COMMISSIONER/SBOE

EDUCATOR RIGHTS ELECTIONS

SCHOOL SAFETY TESTING/ACCOUNTABILITY TEXAS LEGISLATURE

ISSUES AFFECTING EDUCATORS TeachtheVote.org provides overviews of key ATPE issues. We regularly lobby state and federal lawmakers and members of state boards, such as the State Board of Education (SBOE) and State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). We also advocate on your behalf with the Texas Education Agency and the U.S. Department of Education on regulatory aspects.

TRS AND SOCIAL SECURITY:

ATPE has long advocated for the state to provide the funding needed to sustain a defined-benefit pension plan for public school employees that is actuarially sound and sufficient for them to enjoy a secure retirement. ATPE is a leader in federal advocacy to reform Social Security provisions that reduce the retirement benefits of educators who have contributed to a defined benefit pension plan such as that provided by the Teacher Retirement System (TRS).

FREEDOM TO TEACH:

Ensuring educators, and especially classroom teachers, are the primary influencers of decisions about school course design, curriculum standards, assessments, and textbooks and instructional materials is critical to our mission. ATPE has long advocated for our members’ “freedom to teach,” which means trusting and empowering classroom teachers and other campus- and district-level educators to make decisions about curriculum, testing, grading, and countless other elements of pedagogy.

CANDIDATE/ OFFICEHOLDER PROFILES AND VOTING RECORDS TeachtheVote.org visitors can research the education stances of candidates and officeholders, including Texas legislators, members of the State Board of Education, and certain statewide officials. The officeholder profiles on TeachtheVote.org include education-related voting records for existing lawmakers, responses to ATPE’s candidate surveys, additional information, and links to external resources where you can learn more about the officeholders’ views on public education and other issues.

“I use Teach the Vote and Advocacy Central all the time. I share the information with not only my ATPE members at my campus, but also in my local unit and in the region. I let people know that Teach the Vote is for everyone, and this is the way to make informed decisions and make sure that you are doing what you can to be an informed voting member.” —Stephanie Stoebe, Round Rock ATPE, Region 13 Director

BILLS ON THE MOVE TeachtheVote.org’s newest tool, Bills on the Move, allows members to search bills from the 88th Texas Legislature and view their status, ATPE’s position, and relevant Teach the Vote blog posts discussing the bill. Users can search by bill number, bill author, description, or ATPE position.

STRONGER TOGETHER ATPE-PAC OFFERS MEMBERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO POOL THEIR RESOURCES IN SUPPORT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION It’s sad but true that no one goes into teaching to get rich. Public educators are not paid enough, which is why the opportunity to donate to the ATPE Political Action Committee (ATPE-PAC) is an important benefit of ATPE membership. ATPE-PAC makes campaign contributions to officeholders/candidates who support public education, students, and educators.

ATPE-PAC has already established a proven record of success. During the 2022 election cycle, candidates receiving ATPE-PAC and or ATPE Direct (a direct expenditure PAC) contributions won or advanced in 85% of their races. Imagine what we could do if the percentage of participating members increased by 10% or even 20%!

“Every dollar counts for the PAC,” says Twila Figueroa, Region 1 ATPE director, who has seen firsthand the difference in reception when visiting the offices of legislators who have received ATPEPAC contributions and those who have not. “It’s your profession. These people make all our policies. It’s important that we understand that and try to influence them for the betterment of the education of our students and for our own wellbeing as an educator.”

Although no educator on their own could likely contribute enough money in a political race to influence the outcome, when ATPE members pool their resources together through donations to ATPEPAC, they can make a difference. If every ATPE member gave just $5 a month to ATPE-PAC—less than the cost of a large latte—ATPE-PAC would have more than $5 million in its coffers, putting it in the top echelon of PACs in Texas. When a PAC has that level of resources, candidates and officeholders take notice.

“Every dollar counts for the PAC.” —Twila Figueroa, McAllen ATPE, Region 1 Director

DO THE MATH:

EVERY ATPE MEMBER

X $5 /mo.

$5 MILLION IN THE ATPE-PAC

A few important notes about ATPE-PAC: ATPE-PAC solicits donations only from ATPE members, employees, and their families. Participation in ATPE-PAC is voluntary, and members may contribute any amount or nothing at all without affecting their ATPE membership status, rights, or benefits. Learn more about ATPE-PAC and how to donate at ATPE.ORG/ATPE-PAC.

THE 2023 ATPE SUMMIT: CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE The ATPE Summit is ATPE’s annual conference, offering members the opportunity to engage in professional learning and volunteer leader training, network with fellow educators, and conduct ATPE’s annual business meeting. ATPE members made the trek July 10–12 to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock for the 2023 ATPE Summit. Attendees charted a path for their next ATPE adventures in membership recruitment and public education advocacy during volunteer training and a couldn’t-miss legislative update. Also on the agenda were inspiring professional learning sessions, including keynotes presented by Monica Genta, author of 180 Days of Awesome, and Jim “The Rookie” Morris, the reallife high school teacher-turned-major league pitcher. ATPE also presented its annual awards, honored top ATPE-PAC contributors, and recognized state office staff for their years of service to the association.

2023 ATPE State Treasurer Jerrica Liggins recognizes ATPE PAC honorees.

HOUSE OF DELEGATES The ATPE House of Delegates (HOD) convened July 11, 2023, to: • Elect ATPE’s 2023-24 state officers: • President Jayne Serna, Leander ATPE • Vice President Jason Forbis, Midway (12) ATPE • Secretary Jerrica Liggins, Paris ATPE • Treasurer Eli Rodriguez, Cypress-Fairbanks ATPE • Readopt ATPE’s 13 standing resolutions and adopt a resolution honoring 2022-23 Immediate Past State President Karen Hames for her service, all as recommended by the ATPE Resolutions Committee. • Adopt the 2023-24 ATPE Legislative Program as recommended by the ATPE Legislative Committee. Following the HOD meeting, Region 4 ATPE delegates presented outgoing State President Stacey Ward with a proclamation signed by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner declaring July 12, 2023, “Stacey Ward Day.” Ward will serve as ATPE’s 2023-24 Immediate Past State President.

2022–23 AWARDS ATPE honored educators, ATPE volunteers, and education journalists at the summit, as well as presented the association’s highest honor, the Judy Coyle Texas Liberty Award.

JUDY COYLE TEXAS LIBERTY AWARD The Judy Coyle Texas Liberty Award is presented to individuals or organizations who have demonstrated superior service to public education. The 2023 recipient of the Judy Coyle Texas Liberty Award is Laura Yeager, a tireless Texas public school advocate and founding member of three organizations dedicated to our public schools: Texans Advocating for Meaningful School Assessment (TAMSA), Texas Educators Vote, and Just Fund It TX. Learn more at atpe.org/Laura-Yeager.

ALAFAIR HAMMETT MEDIA AWARD The Alafair Hammett Media Award recognizes specific works of journalism that highlight important issues in Texas public education. The 2022-23 ATPE Public Information Committee reviewed six nominated articles and selected KXAN investigative reporter Kelly Wiley as the recipient for her broadcast package entitled “The Exit: Teachers Leave. Students Suffer.”

For a full recap of the ATPE Summit, visit ATPE.ORG/2023-ATPE-SUMMIT.

SPOTLIGHT: ATPE’S 2022-23 CHARLES PICKITT EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR The ATPE Charles Pickitt Educator of the Year Awards honor ATPE members who demonstrate exceptional or innovative capabilities in their respective education fields. The winners are recognized every year at the ATPE Summit and receive a check for $5,000. Learn more about why each of the 2022-23 recipients are such exceptional educators.

The Charles Pickitt Educator of the Year Awards are named for one of ATPE’s founders and past state presidents and recognize ATPE members for their professionalism, dedication, and expertise. The awards are presented in five categories: administrator, associate, elementary, secondary, and special services.

“I have always thought I was lighting the fire in my students, but now I realize they keep that same fire burning in me.” —Michael Sweet, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ATPE, Region 1

ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR MICHAEL SWEET, PHARR-SAN JUAN-ALAMO ISD

Michael Sweet is a fifth-grade teacher at Edith & Ethel Carman Elementary School, where he has worked for the past 23 years. “My passion in the classroom and for what I do drives me to be the best teacher I can be,” Sweet says. “I challenge my students to think outside the box, which is what I am passionate about.” Seeing the results of these efforts inspires him to keep going. “I have always thought I was lighting the fire in my students, but now I realize they keep that same fire burning in me,” Sweet says.

SECONDARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR DAXUS NESOSSI, KATY ISD Nesossi began his career as a U.S. history teacher after enlisting in the U.S. Navy right after high school and serving for 10 years. He then pursued a degree in education and later his master’s in curriculum instruction. He tries to remind his students at Paetow High School in Katy ISD that they, too, have multiple options after graduating. This is why he has worked tirelessly to expand the dual credit courses available. He passionately encourages his students to take these courses every chance he gets.

“I strongly advocate that anyone can take dual credit courses and that there are numerous paths outside of a traditional four-year university,” Neossi explains. “The pride I see on [students’] faces after completing this monumental feat of a college course—while in high school—motivates me each year to continue building the program.”

SPECIAL SERVICES EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

of her career working on the administrative side of education. She began her current position at a tumultuous time for the district. “I was hired after the elementary campus received an F rating,” Flores recalls. “We started working toward understanding and making sure we were teaching at the rigor of STAAR. After every assessment, we looked at the data and pulled out the unpacked standard to see what we may have missed. This was grueling work.” This work paid off as the campus was recently rated an ”A” this past year.

JOHN FORE, DALLAS ISD John Fore is a 30-year teaching veteran who for the past 11 years has been a functional living skills teacher at Young Women’s STEAM Academy in Dallas ISD. Fore is passionate about instilling confidence in his students and believes the best way to do that is to let them know he believes in them. “I feel that my greatest professional contribution is to my students,” Fore says. “I want my students to believe in themselves and see that they can overcome any obstacles that their disabilities may pose.”

ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR CHRISTINA FLORES, RIESEL ISD

Christina Flores is the assistant superintendent at Riesel ISD and has spent the last nine years

ASSOCIATE OF THE YEAR FRANCIS SANCHEZ, ZAPATA COUNTY ISD

For the past 19 years, Francis Sanchez has been a bus driver for Zapata County ISD. In that time, she has worked with students of all grade levels. In 2021 Sanchez was honored for her efforts to keep children safe. While traveling back from a football game through a construction zone, Sanchez saw an 18-wheeler weaving into her lane. “I reacted by reducing my speed and flashing my lights to get the driver’s attention,” Sanchez recalled. “I couldn’t move to the opposite lane due to concrete barricades on that side. By a miracle, the driver reacted in time and weaved back into their lane.” For her quick thinking to avoid a serious accident, she was given the Hero Award by the county.

Learn more about ATPE recognitions at ATPE.ORG/AWARDS.

SAVE THE DATE:

Join ATPE members from around the state for professional learning, volunteer training, networking, and the 44th annual meeting of the ATPE House of Delegates.

JULY 8–10, 2024 | SHERATON DALLAS HOTEL | DALLAS, TEXAS

SHARING TRULY IS CARING ATPE’S ONE NEW = $10 FOR YOU RECRUITMENT PROGRAM SWEETENS THE DEAL FOR MEMBERS WHO SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT ATPE Every ATPE member has the opportunity to earn money for themselves when they spread the word about Texas’ largest community of educators to their friends and colleagues. Thanks to the One New = $10 for You recruitment program, ATPE members can earn $10 for every person they persuade to join them as an ATPE member. Most people join ATPE because a friend or colleague asks them. ATPE’s members are the association’s most effective advertising! This program allows members to earn money for what they are already doing. The top recruiter for the year will also receive additional money. From April until Oct. 31, the person who recruits the most new members receives $1,000 in addition to $10 for each member they recruit. Amanda Fortenberry, formerly of HardinJefferson ISD, was ATPE’s 2022-23 Top Recruiter and recipient of the $1,000 prize. The secret to her success is being vocal about ATPE and its benefits. “I constantly talk to people about ATPE,” Fortenberry says. “You won’t ever even feel it come out of your paycheck, and everybody knows somebody personally who’s used or needed the services ATPE offers at some point in their career. My slogan is ‘Sign up first, and ask questions later. You’re going to want that protection from day one.’”

“Everybody knows somebody personally who’s used or needed the services ATPE offers at some point in their career.” —Amanda Fortenberry, 2022–23 ATPE Top Recruiter.

ATPE members can help grow and strengthen their association while putting money in their pocket. It truly is a win-win situation!

To learn more, visit

ATPE.ORG/RECRUITMENT. 25

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: SEAN DOUGLAS Since the association’s founding in 1980, thousands of ATPE volunteers across Texas have formed the backbone of this association. Their hard work and dedication allow ATPE to serve the state’s largest community of educators. Region 3 ATPE Director Sean Douglas, Cuero ISD, shares how ATPE’s volunteer and leadership opportunities have helped him build connections with fellow ATPE members across the state and bolstered his career.

Throughout his time as an ATPE member, Douglas has served as a campus representative, as well as Region 3 ATPE Secretary, and he was recently elected to serve as Region 3 ATPE Director. He has also served on the ATPE Legislative Committee, which reviews the association’s legislative program and proposes new positions to present to lawmakers at the Texas and U.S. capitols. Douglas especially credits his experience in ATPE’s yearlong leadership development cohort program, Leadership ATPE, for his growth as a leader: “I would say that Leadership ATPE took a deep dive into how we represent our members and how we advocate for them. The way to make education better is when we come together with one voice.” Outside of ATPE, Douglas is a department head, runs several of his school’s clubs, and serves as the executive director of Cuero ISD’s

Education Foundation. He works closely with campus and district leadership to improve conditions for teachers, boost morale, and foster a positive culture in the district.

SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE When asking his colleagues to join ATPE, Douglas emphasizes the legal benefits.* Having personally used this resource, Douglas encourages new members to use it as needed. “If you ever have a legal question, as a member, you can ask that question and know that you’re getting a wellresearched, carefully structured answer specific to your situation.” The question of whether an educator can legally do or say something comes

Region 3 ATPE Director Sean Douglas connects with fellow Leadership ATPE alumni Alicia Hinkle and Mandy Vahrenkamp during the 2023 ATPE Summit.

up often, especially for new teachers, according to Douglas. “The single most valuable asset of my membership is being able to consult with someone who I know has my back, because one hour of an attorney’s time costs more than our annual membership.”

REAPING THE REWARDS OF VOLUNTEERING For Douglas, the most rewarding part of being an ATPE volunteer is seeing a success story: “It’s great to hear from a member that they were able to use a discount or a resource, or to see a member at the summit who tells me they’re happy to be there. When our members are able to use one of ATPE’s benefits, especially to better their job, that makes me very happy.”

Interested in becoming an ATPE volunteer? Reach out to ATPE’s Volunteer Program Coordinator at VOLUNTEER@ATPE.ORG.

Why Is ATPE the No. 1 Choice of Texas Educators?

“Because I feel comfortable and confident with ATPE in my corner.” —LAURA HERRERA prekindergarten teacher, North East

No matter where you are in your career as an educator, there’s a

“Because ATPE is a great value.”

place for you in the Association of Texas Professional Educators. As the state’s largest community of educators, ATPE opens doors

—JACLEAN HARRIS

for members, helping them

paraprofessional and coach, Ingleside

navigate the profession they love, become leaders among their peers, and advocate for their students.

“Because we’re a community of educators who share ideals and beliefs.” —SAGE CAVAZOS first-grade dual language teacher, La Vega

Learn more and join us today at atpe.org. 27

ABOUT ATPE Founded by educators for educators, ATPE is the leading educators’ association in Texas and one of the largest independent educator associations in the United States. We exist to serve the needs of Texas teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, and all public education employees and fight for our schools on the local, state, and national levels.

THE ATPE VISION We support the state’s largest community of educators and are dedicated to elevating public education in Texas.

THE ATPE MISSION We advocate for educators and deliver affordable, high-quality products and services that give members the peace of mind needed to inspire student success.

ATPE PHILOSOPHY We believe it takes everyone working together to improve Texas public schools. We work with all stakeholders in public education, regardless of political party or platform. We work collaboratively with all sides of any debate to find the best solution. And we represent the priorities defined by our members—working educators who are passionate about Texas public schools.

Learn more and join us today at atpe.org.

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