Now, maybe you’re like me and you joined an organization as a brand-new baby teacher and then you paid into it each year without really knowing WHY. Well, luckily, I have some amazing friends who are very passionate about ATPE, and they were constantly sharing information about all the services and discounts that come with being a member of ATPE. So I wanted to share just a few things about ATPE that I didn’t really know before my friends swooped in and saved me! (Ok, that’s a little dramatic, but seriously, I didn’t realize you were supposed to be involved with your organization—I was just a baby teacher!)

1. ATPE totally has your back. If you are a Texas teacher, they are fighting for you. Even if you are not part of ATPE (yet), the lobbyists in Austin are fighting for what’s right for educators (and, let’s be honest, it ultimately impacts our students...). That includes standardized testing, teacher evaluations, our retirement...important stuff!
2. Legal protection—Now I know when you read those words you’re like, “I don’t need legal protection.” Ok, sure and great. BUT what if you did or what if you had questions about if something was legal (like new “initiatives”). You can totally call and just talk to someone about your concerns and your options. But if you need representation, they can help you with that too as long as you’re a member. Win-win.
3. Discounts! Need I say more?! Hotels, insurance, office supplies (aka, my love language), Costco and...wait for it...cruises. Hubs, if you’re reading this, we need to start planning our summer vacays for 2016. Only sort of joking. Guys. Get your ATPE discount card and start saving! :)

Moral of this story: If you are a Texas teacher, you’ve GOTTA join ATPE.

Ok, that’s all I’ve got for today—I promise to pick up the blogging once I’m back in business (when the thermostat says 78 or less in my classroom...I’d even settle for 80 at this point).

Caitlin Andrews writes the Confessions of a Teachaholic blog. You can follow her at candrewsteach.blogspot.com/.

Views and opinions expressed in guest posts are those of the guest blogger and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of ATPE. Eligibility, terms, and conditions apply. Visit www.atpe.org/Protection for more information. The staff attorney services and insured benefits are provided through separate programs.