RyAnn VanCleave – Leading with Heart at J.L. Boren Elementary
This school year marks an exciting new chapter for RyAnn VanCleave, who has stepped into the role of principal at J.L. Boren Elementary in Mansfield, Texas. While it’s her first year in the position, VanCleave is far from new to the campus—she served as assistant principal for the past two years and has been an […]
A Poem to Kick Off Your Local Chapter’s Year
Local chapters are the lifeblood of the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA). Spread across the state, these chapters host meetings that foster community, camaraderie, knowledge, and voting power. Chapter fall meetings are just around the corner! To kick off your local chapter’s 2025–26 year, here’s a poem from the Copperas Cove RTA in District 12, […]
Zeke Castro Leaves a Legacy as an Influential Mariachi Instructor
Zeke Castro, known in Austin as the “El Rey” of mariachi music, was honored on July 13 at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum for his significant contributions to the advancement of mariachi music. As part of the celebration of his legacy, Castro’s traje—the black and silver suit he wore while performing—is now on […]
A Life of Dedication: Mary Nell Short’s Journey from Classroom to Advocacy
Early Life and Education Born and raised in Breckenridge, Texas, Mary Nell grew up in a hardworking family—her mother was a dedicated teacher, and her father was employed in oilfields. This instilled in her both a love for learning and a deep respect for the value of hard work. After graduating from Breckenridge High School, […]
TRS Board Meets, Raises TRS-Care Standard Deductible By $50 For Individuals
Executive Summary: TRS Board of Trustees convene for the first time in new building. Deductibles for TRS-Care Standard plan will be raised by $50 for individuals starting next year. Premiums for both TRS-Care Standard and TRS Medicare Advantage plans will remain the same. Member rewards program launching for TRS-Care standard plan. TRS-Care health education seminars […]
TRTF is Offering Disaster Relief Assistance for Retirees
The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) and Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) are saddened by the loss experienced due to the recent flooding. Both TRTA and TRTF are focusing on doing our part, especially helping those TRS retirees impacted during this time of need. Many of our members and supporters have suffered greatly from these […]
What’s Old Is New Again: Teacher Reuse Improves Texas Classrooms Through Free School Supplies
Teacher Reuse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in San Marcos, Texas, with a mission to support educators by turning donated items into free classroom supplies. What started as a local initiative is now making a statewide impact, helping teachers reduce out-of-pocket expenses while keeping usable materials out of landfills. According to the Teacher Reuse […]
Support Retired Educators Affected By Floods Through TRTF’s Disaster Relief and “A Helping Hand”
Dear Friends, As you may have heard, many areas in Texas are experiencing severe flooding, with the Texas Hill Country among the hardest hit. These floods have already affected many retired educators. Additional areas of Texas will likely experience hardship in the coming days. The Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) is responding through two key […]
TRTA Member Nancy Evans Named ABC-7 Do-Gooder for Lifelong Community Service
Nancy Evans, a retired teacher and principal with 42 years in education, has been honored as El Paso’s ABC-7’s “Do-Gooder” for her outstanding volunteer work and advocacy in the El Paso community. After retiring in 2012, Nancy joined the Assistance League of El Paso, where she became involved in Operation School Bell, a program that […]
A Reflection of Karen’s Journey as a Teacher: Honoring the ‘Mama of Highland Park Elementary’
After more than two decades in education, Karen Lowther’s name is spoken with love, laughter, and admiration within the halls of Highland Park Elementary. Recently retired from Pflugerville Independent School District (ISD), Karen’s story is one of unwavering dedication, humor, passion, and the kind of presence that leaves a lasting imprint—not just in a classroom, […]