Just Thinking… About How Rapid Shifts in AI and Policy Are Elevating the Need for Educator Advocacy in Texas Schools

Schools today are navigating a whirlwind of change, from new expectations in the job market to the growing influence of AI and the constant push to rethink accountability. That’s why conversations about educator advocacy matter so much right now. Texas, for example, ranks among the lowest ten states in per-pupil funding—even while boasting the seventh-strongest economy in the world—highlighting the growing urgency for stronger public-school investment and a louder, more influential educator voice.So, how do educators influence the systems that shape their classrooms—and how can their voices help build a more equitable future for students across diverse communities?Welcome to Just Thinking. In the latest episode, host Kevin Dougherty sits down with DeAnn Lee—former teacher, principal, superintendent, and now Regional Advocacy Director for Raise Your Hand Texas—to explore the power of educator advocacy, the role of students in shaping public policy, and the profound importance of relationships in schools. Their conversation spans accountability, local needs, student voice, future readiness, and the hope that fuels the work of public-education champions everywhere.What you’ll learn…Why educator advocacy matters now more than ever, especially in a state where local workforce needs vary dramatically across regions.How accountability systems must evolve to reflect real-world skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability—not just standardized test scores.The transformative impact of student voice, from advising district decisions to influencing state legislators with thoughtful, community-minded perspectives.DeAnn Lee is an experienced education leader and advocate with more than three decades of service spanning teaching, special education supervision, federal programs management, and district leadership—including five years as Superintendent of Millsap ISD. She currently serves as the Regional Director of Advocacy & Outreach for Raise Your Hand Texas, where she leverages deep expertise in policy, funding, accountability, and educator engagement to strengthen public education across East Texas. A past State President of the Association of Texas Professional Educators, Lee has represented over 110,000 members at state and national levels, advocating for the needs of Texas’ five million students and the professionals who serve them.