Association of Texas Professional Educators
Association of Texas Professional Educators

ATPE News Winter 2017

In this issue of ATPE News, we talk to Texas educators about how fine arts have made a difference in their schools and learn more about an innovative extracurricular program that gives students the opportunity to explore new hobbies and skills. Principal Marla Sullivan from Copperas Cove ISD shares how she has built positive relationships and changed the culture of her school. Attorney Paul Tapp discusses the rules governing the use of cameras on campus, and lobbyist Monty Exter shares some important tips about voting in the March 2018 primaries. Plus, member Paula Franklin shares why she joined ATPE and health teacher Terri Pitts explains how to help your students make healthy choices.
The Lone Star State of the Arts

Texas educators share insights into how the fine arts have enriched the lives of their students.

Unexpected Connections

How one elementary school’s morning workshops bring together students, teachers, and the entire community.

Cultivating School Change

How building positive relationships and setting high expectations supported change in a public school with high mobility and high poverty.

Director's Message

Primaries are in March, and if we want to avoid another year of playing defense at the legislature, we need to take action now.

March is the New November

To make your vote truly count, it’s important to vote in the primary of your district’s dominant party, regardless of your personal politics.

I Stand by ATPE because They Stood by Me

With my background in law, I knew that access to an attorney—and not just a representative with little or no legal training—was what I wanted. Why would I waste time with a group that couldn’t help me?

Cameras in the Classroom

Almost no one, including educators, likes to be recorded. But cameras have continued to proliferate in schools and many public areas. Once reserved solely for cafeterias, halls, and gyms, they are even starting to enter classrooms.

Planting the Seeds of Health in Your Students

At Colonial Hills Elementary in North East ISD, we set a goal to ensure that all children have access to a healthy school environment where they can learn and flourish.