I really enjoyed reading @Michael Spurlin's story on efforts to curb cell phone use in the classroom. The stat that really stuck out to me was the number of phone notifications a class of 30 would receive in an hour. It made me wonder about how many times a day I'm distracted by notifications. What have you noticed in your own s students-and in yourself?
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Kate Johanns
Marketing and Engagement Director
ATPE
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-22-2024 11:32 AM
From: David George
Subject: Check out the latest education stories on ATPE News!

Hello everyone!
We've just rolled out a fresh batch of exciting content on atpenews.org, including features, columns, and member spotlights that we know you won't want to miss. So come check out the latest stories:
- After being named Texas Teacher of the Year, ATPE member Christine Mihealsick is ready to use her new platform to spread positivity, helping fellow educators find joy in their work and support in their struggles.
- A growing number of school districts in Texas are fighting back against the presence of cell phones in the classrooms in order to help their students academically, emotionally, and socially.
- ATPE Member Lena Angel has a message for her fellow Texas educators and ATPE members: Advocacy starts with you. Standing up for yourself is standing up for all of us.
Plus:
- In "Capitol Comment," ATPE Senior Lobbyist Mark Wiggins reminds us to focus on building relationships with lawmakers so we can work to achieve positive outcomes for public schools.
- In "Legal Opinions," ATPE Staff Attorney Jessica Strickel describes how a new law, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, should help provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers.
- In "The Teacher Down the Hall," ATPE Engagement & Learning Specialist Andrea Hutlock explains how fostering a stronger mentoring culture can help elevate the education profession.
Head over now to explore all the new additions, and let us know what you think! As always, your feedback helps us create even better content for you.
See you there!
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David George
Managing Editor
Association of Texas Professional Educators
atpe.org | atpenews.org
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