Just Show Up: The Story of Richard Roberts
Richard Roberts was born and raised in Red River County, Texas, where he attended a small school in Annona and graduated in 1957. He was the youngest of four siblings, two of whom also worked in Texas schools. He attended East Texas State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and met his wife, Linda. […]
A Lesson in Kindness: Alvin ISD Students Bring Joy Across Generations
The culture of giving is alive and thriving in Alvin ISD, where students and staff continue to find meaningful ways to serve others and strengthen their community. One shining example comes from Meridiana Elementary, with kindness, creativity, and connection taking center stage during a recent service initiative. As part of Alvin ISD Serves—an effort that […]
Letter to the Editor: Social Security & Spousal Benefits
(A message from TRTA Executive Director Tim Lee: We hope you enjoy this special guest letter:) Are you receiving all the Social Security benefits you’re entitled to? You might be surprised. With the elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) in January 2025, many retirees are now eligible to collect […]
Special TRTA Live Episode This Friday at 2 P.M. Central — Featuring TRTF Leadership & Boots & Books Preview
Don’t miss a special live episode of TRTA’s broadcast this Friday, April 10 at 2:00 p.m. Central on Facebook and YouTube, featuring Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) Executive Director Tim Lee alongside Bill Barnes of the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) and Jeanne Paull-Turner, event organizer and TRTA liaison. This engaging conversation will pull back the curtain on […]
Texas House Interim Charges Released, Includes TRS Review
The Texas House Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services Committee (PIFS) has been charged with reviewing the long-term financial stability of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS). This charge comes from Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, who has directed the PIFS Committee to study TRS funding sources and evaluate the potential impact of benefit enhancements […]
TRTA 101: Elections Matter! – Friday, March 13 at 2 p.m. Central
The third episode of TRTA 101, titled “Elections Matter!”, will air live on Friday, March 13, at 2 p.m. Central. This episode will focus on the Texas Retired Teachers Association’s (TRTA) take on the primary election results and what we need to do to get candidates talking about our issues in the upcoming runoff and […]
“A Labor of Love”: Cathy Duvall’s Continued Commitment to Education and Community
For many retired educators, retirement marks the closing of a chapter. For Cathy Duvall, our Local Chapter President of Fort Bend-Harris Retired Educators (FBHRE), it opened the door to a new season of purpose, leadership, and connection, one that continues to strengthen communities and inspire fellow educators across Texas. Joining TRTA after retirement was a […]
Celebrating Creativity and Excellence: Spotlight on El Paso ISD Art Education
At the heart of El Paso Independent School District’s (EPISD) Fine Arts Department is a dedication to inspiring students and nurturing their creative voices. This week, we celebrate Burges High School art teacher Belenice Godinez, who recently earned National Board Certification, one of the highest professional recognitions for educators. According to Andrea Smith, EPISD’s Visual […]
Boots & Books: An Unforgettable Night Celebrating Educators and Military Veterans
The Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) is hosting a very special event on April 25, 2026, Boots and Books, at the inspiring National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas. This unique event will spotlight the achievements and service of both educators and military veterans, honoring two groups whose dedication strengthens our communities and our […]
Primary Election Day is Here!
Today, March 3, 2026, is Primary Election Day in Texas! TRTA members, we encourage you to vote in this very important election. Far fewer voters make it to the polls during a Primary Election than during the November General Election. Early voting wrapped up on Friday, February 27. After eight days of early voting, almost […]