For Dr. David Del Bosque, retirement hasn’t meant stepping away from the habits, friendships, and teamwork that shaped his decades in public education. Instead, it has allowed him to keep those connections alive, one swing at a time.
David’s 38-year career in education included roles as a counselor, teacher, baseball coach, principal, and superintendent. He joined Avalon ISD in 1994, serving as superintendent for 17 years. When he retired in 2018, he emphasized his commitment to seeing school initiatives through and providing quality instruction until his final day. His career reflected a lasting dedication to the schools, students, and communities he served.
That dedication was accompanied by a love for coaching and team camaraderie. David and Don Clingenpeel, former superintendent at Milford ISD, share a history rooted in education and athletics. Before becoming school leaders, David coached high school baseball, while Don coached basketball. The competitive spirit they carried through practices, pep talks, and game days never faded; it simply found a new home.
Just over five years ago, the longtime colleagues met at the D-Bat Waxahachie batting cages “to stay sharp.” What began as a simple idea has grown into a weekly ritual. Today, David and Don still arrive each Wednesday at noon, stepping into the 70-mph range and laughing like rookies trying to make the team.
David shared that what began as a way to stay active has become “a source of joy, connection, and steady companionship.” He admitted their warm-ups take a little longer these days, and some of their grunts weren’t part of their old coaching repertoire. Still, their enthusiasm remains unchanged. They trade banter, offer encouragement only former coaches can deliver, and insist the pitching machine has gotten faster, despite no evidence its settings have changed.
Their weekly routine reflects the values that defined their careers: showing up, giving their best effort, and supporting the person beside them. Whether in a classroom, a boardroom, or a batting cage, educators understand the importance of showing up for one another. The same teamwork that once guided students and staff now keeps these two retired superintendents moving, laughing, and looking forward to what they call “Batting Cage Wednesday.”
For David and Don, retirement is another opportunity to put those values into practice. Their story reminds fellow retired educators that the relationships and sense of purpose built over a career can continue long after the final bell. Through TRTA, retirees can stay connected with one another, make their voices heard on issues affecting their retirement, and help support the future of public education.
After all, retirement isn’t about stepping out of the game—it’s just stepping up to a different plate.
