Organizing with HFT

In this episode of Organizing with HFT, we speak with Arnetta Murray, a 19-year Special Education teacher in Texas, about why she continues to advocate for public education in Houston ISD—even when the cards feel stacked against educators. Ms. Murray shares her perspective on what it means to show up for students in Special Education classrooms, the challenges teachers are navigating across the di...

In this episode of Organizing with HFT, we sit down with veteran educator and union leader Rennette Brown to talk about what it really means to be a strong building representative. Ms. Brown shares her experiences organizing coworkers, building trust on campus, and creating a culture where educators feel supported and empowered to come together. From handling workplace concerns to growing union so...

Join our conversation with a 39-year veteran educator and Houston Federation of Teachers member, Estela Blair, who is living the reality of the Houston ISD state takeover. She shares what has changed inside her classroom and school community, how top-down mandates and constant scrutiny impact educators and students, and what it feels like to teach when local voices are pushed aside. Through her ex...

In this episode of Organizing with HFT, we sit down with an HFT member, Rachel Dixon, to talk about finding her voice as an educator and learning how to respond to administration with confidence and professionalism. She shares why she decided to join HFT, how union membership has supported her both in the classroom and beyond, and the positive impact that support has had on her students. Ms. Dixon...

Step back in time with the Houston Federation of Teachers as we sit down with founding member Richard Shaw for a powerful conversation about the past, present, and future of public education in Houston. Drawing on more than fifty years of experience, Shaw reflects on what Houston ISD looked like decades ago, the challenges and realities of desegregation, and the role educators and unions played du...

In this episode, HFT President Jackie Anderson breaks down what’s happening inside Houston ISD and how recent changes are affecting educators, students, and schools. She shares how HFT is supporting members through legal assistance, advocacy, and professional resources, and explains why educator unity is essential during this pivotal moment for the district.

In this episode, we sit introduce ourselves as organizers with Houston Federation of Teachers (HFT) to talk about what HFT is, how it works, and the role organizers play in supporting educators across the district. We talk about who is eligible to join, and discuss the core reasons many educators choose to become part of HFT. Whether you’re new to the district, curious about union work, or looking...