The Association of
Texas Professional Educators is the preeminent educator association in Texas and
makes a positive difference in the lives of educators and in the lives of
schoolchildren. As professionals, our members are committed to supporting
quality public education and the professional rights and obligations of the
education community. Working in partnership with parents, business, community
and government, ATPE provides the programs and services that enable educators
and schoolchildren to achieve their highest potential.
Professionalism
ATPE members are committed to making positive contributions to the education
profession and the lives of students by:
• Maintaining personal and professional dignity by respecting and obeying the
law, demonstrating personal integrity, and exemplifying honesty and ethical
behavior; and
• Assuming the responsibilities for professional teaching practices and
performance.
Member-Owned/Member-Governed
ATPE members guide the Association through their elected local, region and Board
of Directors representatives and by participation at the annual House of
Delegates.
Right to Work/Oppose Strikes
ATPE members believe:
• Educators have the right to teach without being forced to join any particular
organization; and
• Strikes or work stoppages are detrimental to children, the community and the
profession.
Quality of Services to Members
ATPE members believe their Association should provide quality services and
benefits to its members through a dedicated, professional staff.
All-Inclusive
ATPE members believe all members of the public education community (including
teachers, administrators, para-educators, retirees, teacher trainees, college
students and the public) should be invited to join ATPE.
Leadership
ATPE members believe they have an obligation to be effective, proactive leaders
in the field of education while representing themselves and their profession.
Collaborative
ATPE members believe in working with others to advocate positive solutions to
education issues facing public education today.
Nonpartisan/Issues-Oriented
ATPE members determine and advocate a platform of education issues in accordance
with ATPE philosophy in a proactive, professional manner. ATPE is nonpartisan
and does not endorse any particular political party or candidate.
Independent
ATPE members believe ATPE should maintain its autonomy while collaborating with
other groups throughout Texas and the nation.
Local Control
ATPE members support local public control of the local public school system
through the elections of school board members and involvement of local community
members.