Real Savings for ATPE Members

Retired Texas educator Donna Ward shares how her ATPE membership helps her save on travel and everyday expenses, offering a simple example of how ATPE member discounts can add up to big savings.

March 31, 2026

ATPE member Donna Ward has relied on member discounts for years, but since retiring, she’s begun traveling more often, so her ATPE discounts have become even more valuable.

Ward recently used ATPE’s travel discounts to save money on both a cruise and a beach getaway.

“In February 2025, I booked a cruise for my sister and me through the discount site. We saved a little over $100. They were even able to beat my military discount through the cruise line. That meant more spending money for our trip.”

Donna Ward

ATPE Member and Retired Texas educator

She also used the discount program to book a stay in Panama City Beach, Florida.

“I stayed at the Comfort Inn on one of the main roads through town for $67.15 a night. The weekend rate went up to $84.15, but that was still a great deal—and it included a full breakfast.”

Ward has also taken advantage of other ATPE member benefits in her volunteer work. As secretary for her local Texas Retired Teachers Association district, she uses ATPE’s ODP Business Solutions program to print materials at Office Depot for conferences and meetings.

“I printed 125 copies of an 11-page document for $57.50,” she says.

Stories like Ward’s show how ATPE member benefits can help educators and retirees stretch their budgets in practical ways. You can explore the full range of savings opportunities at atpe.org/member-discounts.