Early Voting Ends Tomorrow!
Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) members and supporters—IT’S TIME! Primary Election 2026 is here. TRTA members have a track record of voting and voting early! The Texas Legislature has a track record of prioritizing the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and issues impacting TRS retirees during past legislative sessions. Our currency in the political […]
Chalkboard Champion: Vickie Wright
When Vickie Wright was named Texas Teacher of the Year on October 17 at the Texas Association of School Administrators conference at the Kalahari Resort, the honor represented more than professional recognition. It affirmed a calling shaped by family, mentorship, and a deep belief in the power of public education. Wright’s journey began with her […]
Celebrating Sandra Barber: A Black History Month Spotlight on Education and Advocacy
Black History Month offers an opportunity to celebrate leaders whose lives reflect purpose and perseverance. TRTA is proud to share the story of Sandra Barber, whose dedication to education and continued advocacy for retired educators have made a lasting impact. Sandra currently serves as Chair of the TRTA Organizational Affairs Committee, bringing decades of experience, […]
Early Voting Begins Today!
Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) members and supporters—IT’S TIME! Primary Election 2026 is here. TRTA members have a track record of voting and voting early! The Texas Legislature has a track record of prioritizing the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and issues impacting TRS retirees during past legislative sessions. Our currency in the political […]
TRS Board Approves Health Care Providers, Reviews Pension Studies
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) Board of Trustees has been meeting for the past two days. Among the key items considered was the approval of new health care providers for both the active (TRS-ActiveCare) and retired (TRS-Care) health care programs. The Board decided to stay with the same providers for each program that […]
TRTA 101: All Politics Are Local! – Friday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. Central
The second episode of TRTA 101, titled “All Politics Are Local!”, will air live on Friday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. Central. This episode will focus on the upcoming Texas primary elections and your power as a voter. TRTA Executive Director Tim Lee will be joined by Dr. Mary Widmier, TRTA’s Legislative Coordinator. TRTA members […]
Ella Gauthier, TRTA President – Honoring a Lifetime of Service to Students and Retired Educators
During Black History Month, the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is proud to spotlight Ella Gauthier, a longstanding member whose life and leadership exemplify the enduring power of education and advocacy. Serving as President of the Board of Directors, Ella holds the historic distinction of being the first and only African American woman to serve […]
A Different Path, Perfectly Timed
For Marla Chavez, retirement was never supposed to come early. Her plan was clear and steady: continue working well into her seventies, just like the remarkable women she admired in her Katy book club and at Katy ISD—educators and professionals in their eighties who showed her that passion doesn’t have an expiration date. Marla loved […]
The Heart of a Teacher: Inspiring Growth, Laughter, and Lifelong Learning
For Ligia Floyd, who teaches English at Walsh Middle School in Round Rock, Texas, teaching has always been more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in curiosity, connection, and joy. “I’ve always loved learning, sharing ideas, and connecting with people,” she says. “The classroom felt like the perfect place for all of that to come […]
Voter Registration Deadline is Monday, Feb. 2!
The Texas voter registration deadline is Monday, Feb. 2. The March 2026 Primary Elections are fast approaching and will determine which candidates advance to the November ballot—candidates who will influence teacher retirement security, school funding, and the future of Texas and Texas classrooms. Your vote is your voice. And in a primary election, that voice […]