Director’s Message - ATPE News ATPE Executive Director Shannon Holmes highlights member discounts, introduces our new ATPE app, shares updates on the 2026 ATPE Summit, and reminds members that advocacy continues year-round, even…

ATPE Executive Director Shannon Holmes is back with an update for members.

In the latest Director’s Message, hear about new member discounts, a look at the new ATPE Mobile App, updates on the 2026 ATPE Summit, and why advocacy doesn’t stop.

Watch the full message: atpenews.org/directors-me...

Texas educators: Applications for the free Summer Institute on Genocide Education are due by April 20. The program (June 3–6 in Carrollton) provides 6th–12th grade Social Studies and ELA teachers with curriculum tools, books, and PD credit. atpenews.org/free-summer-...

Delegate certification for the 2026 #ATPESummit is now open! Region & local unit presidents: Check your email for your unique certification link—it's the ONLY way to certify delegates.

🗓️ Deadline: June 12

Note: Only presidents certify delegates. Individuals must register themselves. atpesummit.org

Ask a colleague to join ATPE—and get rewarded for it. 💰

ATPE's Recruit & Reward program: Earn $10/new member you recruit (Apr 1–Oct 31, 2026). Top recruiter wins an extra $1,000!

No forms. Just have them write your name in the "recruited by" box.

bit.ly/RecruitandRe... #RecruitAndReward #TXed

ATPE is #hiring! We are currently seeking an Office Administrator/Payroll & Benefits Specialist to process payroll, assist employees with payroll and benefits questions, and manage day-to-day office operations. Please visit bit.ly/ATPE-Job to learn more and apply!

📅 Join by July 1
✅ Covered July 1
💳 Pay in August
ATPE's "join early" deal is live TODAY. Don't wait — atpe.org/join-now #TXed

Volunteer Spotlight: Haydee Castillo - ATPE News Meet Haydee Castillo, a first grade teacher at Valley View South Elementary School in Valley View ISD and the president of Valley View (1) ATPE.

Meet Haydee Castillo—a first grade teacher and the president of Valley View (1) ATPE! In the latest ATPE News Volunteer Spotlight, Haydee shares how being a visible presence on campus helps grow community and support for ATPE members across her district. atpenews.org/volunteer-sp...

Don’t Be Fooled: AI Scams Are Getting Smarter This April 1 - ATPE News AI-powered scams are on the rise, making it easier to impersonate trusted voices. Learn how educators can stay protected this April Fools’ Day with simple steps and free resources.

April Fools’ Day is a reminder that not every trick is harmless. Some scams now use AI to mimic voices and messages so convincingly that even experienced educators can be caught off guard.

Read more at atpenews.org/ai-scams-are-getting-smarter

Round of Applause - ATPE News Let’s give a round of applause to our ATPE members all around the state who go above and beyond.

From Aldine to Paris and spots in between, let's hear it for the ATPE members across Texas who go the extra mile for their students and their campuses! Check out the latest ATPE News Round of Applause: atpenews.org/round-of-applause-january-2026/

Empowering Neurodivergent Students: Insights for Texas Teachers During Neurodiversity Celebration Week - ATPE News Neurodiversity Celebration Week, observed March 17–23, 2026, reminds educators that students learn in different ways. Texas teachers can support neurodivergent learners by building classrooms where…

Neurodiversity Celebration Week, observed March 17–23, 2026, reminds educators that students learn in different ways. Texas teachers can support neurodivergent learners by building classrooms where belonging comes first.

atpenews.org/empowering-n...

ATPE Member Benefits Roundup - ATPE News From protecting your family to supporting your work-life balance, ATPE member benefits are designed to help educators navigate life’s big moments with confidence while saving money along the way.

ATPE member benefits are designed to make it a little easier, from helping with personal legal matters through Texas Legal to offering child care discounts through KinderCare.

See how these programs and more can support your family at atpenews.org/atpe-member-benefits-roundup-january-2026/

Scholarships July 14–16, 2026JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & SpaSan Antonio, Texas

Jordan Platt grew up volunteering at ATPE events with his parents. In 2025, he attended his first ATPE Summit—thanks to a scholarship.

"Without it, I wouldn't be able to afford to attend being fresh out of school."

The 2026 deadline to apply is MARCH 22 ⬇️
atpesummit.org/scholarships/

This Sunday, March 15, is the deadline to submit 2026-27 state officer nominations! Learn more at atpe.me/2627stateoff....

When Motivation Fades, Momentum Matters - ATPE News If teaching feels heavier right now, you’re not alone. As motivation fluctuates, momentum becomes essential. Learn how small, consistent practices can help educators show up for themselves and their…

The latest "The Teacher Down the Hall" column from ATPE News explains, when motivation fades, momentum is what carries you to the finish line.

Pro-tip: Focus on one small win today. Just one! Read the full advice on finding your momentum: atpenews.org/ttdth-when-m...

#ATPE #TexasTeachers

Mentor Session: Andrea Hutlock SXSW EDU 2026 Schedule | Talk to Me About: - Guidance on moving beyond survival to find sustainability in teaching, especially for early career educators - Advice on transitioning from classroom…

At SXSW EDU? ATPE's own Engagement & Learning Specialist Andrea Hutlock is doing a mentor session at 4 p.m. Wednesday at the Hilton. Get the details here: schedule.sxswedu.com/events/PP114...

Are you at #SXSWEDU this week? Stop by the ATPE table outside the Expo Hall on Level 2 of the Marriott to say hi and find out how to earn continuing professional education (CPE) credit at select sessions!

How to Navigate an Unfair Teacher Evaluation - ATPE News Teacher evaluations can carry high stakes, including contract renewal and incentive pay. Knowing your appraisal system and response timelines can help you take appropriate action when an evaluation…

Teacher evaluations carry high stakes—from contract renewals to Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) eligibility.

Read the full guide here: atpenews.org/legal-opinio...

#TexasTeachers #EducationLaw #ATPE #TeacherEvaluations #TTESS

Save on Travel with ATPE Member Discounts - ATPE News ATPE member Mayra Gutierrez saved hundreds on a family trip to Orlando using theme park tickets, dining credits, and a rental car discount. Educators can take advantage of similar savings through…

Don’t leave money on the table. Start planning your spring break escape today! Read Mayra's story and see your discounts: atpenews.org/save-on-trav...

What Texas Educators Need to Know Before the March 3 Primary - ATPE News The March 3, 2026, Texas primaries are fast approaching. Take a moment now to confirm your voter registration and access reliable election information through ATPE resources.

In the latest Capitol Comment, ATPE’s Monty Exter explains why every ballot cast by a Texas educator strengthens public educators' voice at the Capitol. Get ready: atpenews.org/capitol-comm...

#ATPE #TeachTheVote #TXEd #TexasPrimary #AdvocacyInAction

More Than a Name: Honoring Black History in Texas Schools - ATPE News This Black History Month, explore Texas schools named for Black leaders and trailblazers and connect with resources highlighting the history and contributions of Black Texans.

Do you know the story behind the name? In honor of Black History Month, we're taking a look at the Texas schools named for Black leaders and trailblazers, as well as connecting you with resources highlighting the history and contributions of Black Texans.

atpenews.org/honoring-bla...

ATPE is hiring! We are currently recruiting for a Membership Specialist I position to cover the Piney Woods area, including ISDs in the East Texas area from Newton to Caldwell and north to Texarkana. Please visit bit.ly/ATPE-Job to learn more and apply!

When a Joke Isn’t a Joke: Why School Threats Demand Serious Attention - ATPE News Threats in schools may be rising, and responses are rarely simple. Educators and students share how campuses assess risk and protect learning when safety concerns disrupt the school day.

Texas educators and safety experts share what really happens when a "joke" disrupts your campus, and how the "Threats Are No Joke" campaign can help. Read more in our latest ATPE News feature: atpenews.org/when-a-joke-...

Student-Led Protests and Educator Responsibilities in Texas Schools - ATPE News As student-led protests draw increased scrutiny from the Texas Education Agency, educators should understand their legal and professional responsibilities and the risks associated with walkouts…

As student-led protests draw increased scrutiny from the Texas Education Agency, educators should understand their legal and professional responsibilities and the risks associated with walkouts during the school day.

atpenews.org/student-led-...

Volunteer Spotlight: Lena Angel - ATPE News Meet Lena Angel, an English teacher in Katy ISD, co-president of Katy ATPE, and the 2025 Doug Rogers Campus Representative of the Year.

ATPE volunteers keep our mission moving forward, and Lena Angel is a standout example of that commitment.

Get to know more about Lena’s incredible service and leadership in our latest Volunteer Spotlight: atpenews.org/volunteer-sp...

Round of Applause - ATPE News Let’s give a round of applause to our ATPE members all around the state who go above and beyond.

Let’s hear it for the ATPE members across Texas who go the extra mile for their students and campuses. Check out the latest ATPE News Round of Applause: atpenews.org/round-of-app...

The F-Word: When Did “Fun” Become a Dirty Word in Education? - ATPE News Has “fun” become a forbidden word in schools? One educator reflects on how joy once defined learning and how teachers today can reclaim the small moments of creativity, connection, and wonder that…

Why has “fun” started to feel off-limits in today’s schools? ATPE's Andrea Hutlock shares why joy still matters—and how simple, creative moments can spark meaningful learning.

Dive into this thoughtful reflection on bringing joy back to the classroom: atpenews.org/the-teacher-...

The Importance of Exercising (Your Right to Vote) - ATPE News Exercising your right to vote keeps our democracy strong. Here’s why participation matters and how showing up makes all the difference.

The March primaries will be here before we know it. Much like our bodies, our rights, including the right to vote, are stronger and healthier when we exercise them. Read more from ATPE's Monty Exter in the latest ATPE News Capitol Comment. atpenews.org/capitol-comm...

Rethinking Recess: Helping Kids Build Their Future, One Brick at a Time - ATPE News From playground to classroom, every moment of play helps kids build the bricks of their future, fostering creativity, resilience, and success along the way.

The new ATPE News article “Rethinking Recess: Helping Kids Build Their Future, One Brick at a Time” argues that recess is a critical part of learning. From boosting creativity and resilience to improving and social skills.

Read the full story: atpenews.org/rethinking-r...

We are wrapping up the year by showcasing some of your ATPE favorites. Thank you for showing up and supporting public education in Texas! Hit play and then 👇post below to let us know what stands out to you. The ATPE State Office will be closed Dec. 22–Jan. 2. We'll reopen Jan. 5—see you in 2026!

Winter Prep for Texas Educators: A Practical End-of-Semester Checklist - ATPE News As winter break nears, educators juggle grades, compliance, and classroom management. Use this end-of-semester checklist to stay organized, meet key deadlines, and start the new year ready to…

As winter break nears, educators juggle grades and classroom management. Use this end-of-semester checklist from the ATPE Member Legal Services Department to stay organized and start the new year ready to recharge and refocus.

See the full checklist at atpenews.org/legal-opinio...