Houston Loves Teachers took the rodeo by storm this year, hosting a series of Wine Garden meetups that brought together nearly 200 educators from across the region. It was a fantastic mix of familiar faces and new friends, with teachers reconnecting, swapping stories, and building a growing network of educators who support and uplift each other.
Beyond the teachers in attendance, we had the opportunity to connect with rodeo volunteers and community members who saw our signs and wanted to learn more. These conversations were a great reminder that Houston is full of people eager to support teachers—they just need the invitation to get involved. We’re looking forward to working with more of them to plug in the teachers from their networks or find meaningful ways to invest in and support Houston educators.
A Growing HLT Family
One of the biggest takeaways from these gatherings? Houston Loves Teachers is building a true community. Several teachers shared how they first met at an HLT event and have since worked together, collaborated, or stayed in touch. Some even requested subject-specific convenings so they can learn from each other, trade ideas, and strengthen their practice.
We’ve also built trust and credibility with teachers who have attended multiple events. Several groups even asked how they could give back to HLT because they see how often we show up for them. That’s the kind of full-circle energy we love to see!
Teachers Want to Be More Informed Advocates
Another theme that came up repeatedly? Teachers want to understand education policy better. Many shared that they hear about legislative changes, but the information is often hard to decipher facts from feelings. They’re eager for clear, accessible explanations of policies and laws so they can be better informed and more effective advocates for themselves and their students.
Having Champions Outside the Classroom Matters
Many teachers also expressed how much it means to know there are allies outside the school system advocating for them. There’s a strong sense that public discourse around education often comes from either people who don’t fully understand schools or those who have a financial stake in education-related ventures. Seeing genuine supporters who understand the challenges of teaching but aren’t in it for personal gain makes a real difference.
Great Teachers Inspire Great Teachers
Great Teachers Inspire Great Teachers
Perhaps one of the most moving moments of the night was hearing teachers talk about the educators who inspired them. One teacher was thrilled to reconnect with a former teacher who shaped her own journey into the profession. Another spoke about her first-grade teacher who made such an impact that she still channels her in the classroom 40 years later. These stories are a powerful reminder that great teachers create generations of great teachers.
Teaching Runs in the Family
We also had a strong showing of multi-generational and family teaching teams! From mother-daughter duos to husband-and-wife educators, it was amazing to see how teaching is a passion that runs deep in so many families. One attendee even shared that her mother-in-law recruited her son-in-law into the profession!
The Hunger to Learn and Grow
Across nearly every conversation, one thing was clear: teachers want more opportunities to learn, grow, and develop new skills. They asked about everything from career pathways and leadership development to expanding their knowledge of the world to better serve their students. They’re eager for guidance on navigating change, mastering their craft, and even understanding alternative career options within education.
Looking Ahead
These rodeo events were more than just a fun night out—they were a reflection of Houston’s incredible teaching community and the deep desire for connection, support, and continued learning.
We’re taking all of this feedback to heart as we plan future events and initiatives that will provide even more opportunities for teachers to build community, gain knowledge, and feel valued.
To all the teachers who joined us—thank you for being part of Houston Loves Teachers. And to those who stopped by just to learn more, we can’t wait to welcome you into this movement.
Stay tuned for what’s next, and let’s continue making Houston the best place to be a teacher!
