Breaking Down the 89th Texas Legislature's Regular Session and Its Impact on Public Education

Holocaust Education Through Personal Stories

In a follow-up to her recent conversation with Elizabeth SoRelle from the Texas Holocaust, Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission (THGAAC), [https://thgaac.texas.gov/] host Andrea Hutlock has a meaningful conversation with retired educator Claudia Loewenstein from the THGAAC Speakers Bureau, whose family history and classroom experience have shaped her passion for Holocaust education. As the daughter of Holocaust survivors, Claudia grew up hearing firsthand accounts of life in Nazi Germany and the devastating impact of antisemitism on families and communities. In this episode, she reflects on the responsibility she feels to share those stories with students across Texas and explains why personal narratives can make history feel immediate and real for young learners. Andrea and Claudia discuss the importance of helping students connect emotionally with historical events while creating space for thoughtful classroom conversations and deeper reflection. The episode also explores the role Holocaust speakers can play in Texas schools, the educational opportunities available through the THGAAC, and the importance of helping students understand Jewish culture as a living and continuing part of everyday life. Additional ATPE resources: * The ATPE Podcast episode with the THGAAC’s SoRelle * New ATPE Professional Learning Portal course developed in collaboration with THGAAC: “Teaching Jewish History and Holocaust Education” [https://member.atpe.org/Security/Sign-In?ReturnUrl=%2FSecurity%2FTopClassSSO%3Fidpinitiated%3Dtrue]

Holocaust Education and the Power of Student Connection

Join host Andrea Hutlock for a thoughtful conversation with Elizabeth SoRelle, commission educator at the Texas Holocaust, Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission (THGAAC) [https://thgaac.texas.gov/], about the importance of Holocaust education and the lasting impact meaningful classroom experiences can have on students. In this episode, Elizabeth reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to Holocaust education advocate, including professional learning experiences at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. She also shares how those experiences have inspired powerful student projects that help students connect emotionally with history while deepening their understanding of the world around them. Andrea and Elizabeth discuss helping students form personal connections to history, creating authentic learning opportunities that resonate beyond the classroom, and preserving stories that encourage compassion while strengthening understanding across cultures and generations. The episode also touches on Senate Bill 1828, which requires Holocaust education in Texas public schools, and Holocaust Remembrance Week.

Gear Up for “Maycember” with ATPE Summit Keynote Speaker Juan Bendana

The latest episode of The ATPE Podcast is now available! Join co-hosts Andrea Hutlock and Kate Johanns for a special look at the 2026 ATPE Summit, including an exclusive interview with opening keynote speaker Juan Bendana! Juan shares thought-provoking strategies for staying energized, building confidence, and starting each day with intention. It’s the jolt of good info you need as we begin the sprint to the last day of school. Registration is now open for the ATPE Summit, [https://www.atpesummit.org/] July 14–16 at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. Join us for three days of inspiring sessions, fun social events, the annual meeting for the ATPE House of Delegates, and the opportunity to earn up to seven hours of continuing professional education credit. Listen to the podcast through your favorite streaming service or on YouTube. Discuss this episode and share ideas for future segments. Juan Bendana’s appearance arranged through Gotham Artists.

New Year, New Goals, New Opportunities to Build Community

Join Kate and Andrea for a discussion of the "Bookish Educator Club," a loose, low-commitment effort to support reading goals, as well as a sneak preview of some exciting member benefit news. Hosted by: * Kate Johanns, ATPE Marketing & Engagement Director * Andrea Hutlock, ATPE Engagement & Learning Specialist

Time for a Reset

Just in time for winter break, The ATPE Podcast is back from its hiatus with a mid-year reset of its own: a new format! The refreshed podcast format features two co-hosts—Andrea Hutlock and Kate Johanns—as well as a shorter length, a wider variety of content, and, coming in the new year, the inclusion of member voices. We’ll still feature advocacy and legal content on the regular, but we’ll also cover professional learning, leadership growth, and opportunities to save money using your member discounts! In this episode, we: * Discuss the 2026 ATPE Summit Call for Proposals [https://bit.ly/ATPEproposal26] (Submission deadline: 12) * Learn about new courses available on demand in the ATPE Professional Learning Portal [https://atpe.org/cpe] * Explore opportunities to save on online shopping using the ATPE Discounts & Rewards Marketplace [https://atpe.org/discounts] Discuss this episode and share ideas for future segments in the ATPE Online Community. [https://community.atpe.org]