Volunteer Spotlight: Angie McClain

A Servant’s Heart

McClain has been an ATPE member for 19 years and served as a campus representative for almost that whole time. She decided to take on a more active volunteer role about six years ago after being asked to help recruit new members at a new-teacher orientation. Since then, she has become a local unit secretary, served on committees, and continued being a campus rep. McClain enjoys volunteering because it allows her the chance to give back to her community.

“I have a servant’s heart and truly enjoy being there for my co-workers,” McClain says. “That’s one of the main reasons I started volunteering with ATPE. It gives me the chance to support my fellow educators—whether I am sharing important resources, answering questions, or simply being someone they can count on.”

McClain says she also enjoys the opportunity to connect with her community through her volunteer experience.

“I really love being part of a professional community that values public education, professional growth, and teacher rights,” McClain says. “It is incredibly rewarding. I especially appreciate the chance to connect with passionate, like-minded professionals.”

Volunteering Helps Her Grow

While McClain relishes the opportunity to help other educators, she also shares that her volunteer experience with ATPE has enriched her both professionally and personally.

“I’ve developed valuable leadership skills by taking on roles that pushed me outside my comfort zone, such as organizing events and representing educators in my district,” McClain explains. “I’ve gained confidence in using my voice to support public education and have become more informed and empowered as a leader on my campus and in my community.

“I’m a people person, but at the same time, I’m kind of timid. You would think after standing in front of students all day long for 20 years I would be fine, but with adults, it’s different. Volunteering for ATPE has helped me overcome that feeling and to try new things. Never in my life would I have thought I would be attending something like the ATPE Member Advocate Program (ATPE-MAP) Capitol Expeditions. However, I thoroughly enjoyed doing that this year. I think that shows just how much ATPE has helped me grow personally.”

McClain also credits her volunteer experience with helping her build relationships with other educators.

“I have also built strong connections with professionals across the state—people who inspire and challenge me to be a better educator and advocate. Being involved with ATPE has helped me to meet some great people that have become friends and feel like family.”

McClain says she always shares these experiences and how she has benefited from ATPE with potential members when she is recruiting.