TRTA Staff Reflect on the Stories That Inspired Us Most in 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, the TRTA & ME team took a moment to look back on the stories that moved us, motivated us, and reminded us why advocacy, service, and storytelling matter. These are the stories that stayed with us long after they were published – each one highlighting the power of educators, […]
TRTA’s Longtime Santa
For many in the Texas Retired Teachers Association, Secretary/Treasurer Gary Schepf is known for his service on the Board of Directors. But he also holds another special role in his life: Santa Claus. Schepf first donned the red suit in 1976 while working at Gibson’s Discount Center, a Texas discount store similar to an early […]
A Life of Quiet Confidence and Joyful Service: Celebrating Ms. Helen Tanner
At 95 years young, Ms. Helen Tanner still radiates the unmistakable glow of a teacher whose legacy reaches far beyond her classroom. Retired since 1984, Ms. Tanner continues to represent the spirit of service, advocacy, and community that strengthens the Texas Retired Teachers Association. Her life—and story—offers a powerful reminder of the lasting influence one […]
Guadalupe Nava’s Journey from the Air Force to High School Principal
For Guadalupe Nava, a lifetime of service began long before he ever set foot in a classroom. After growing up in Alice, Texas, Nava enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1967. He served for four years, including a deployment to Vietnam. When he returned home in 1971, he was newly married and ready […]
Service from the Spirit: Ms. Johnie Walker’s Story
For Ms. Johnie Walker, service is more than something she does – it’s who she is. A lifelong educator, mentor, and volunteer, Ms. Walker has spent her life following what she calls her “service from the spirit.” Whether in a classroom teaching students, mentoring future teachers, or delivering meals to seniors, her guiding principle has […]
Leading by Example: A Lifelong Legacy of Service from the Classroom to Community – George E. Moore
The life and career of Mr. George E. Moore reflect an enduring devotion to others, first to his students, then to his community, and now to his fellow retired educators. His path affirms his conviction that teaching is both a calling and a lifelong commitment, and the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is honored to share his […]
“It’s Better Than Medicine” – Spotlighting Jan Romeis’s Powerlifting Journey
The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is proud to celebrate the incredible members who continue to embody the spirit of lifelong learning, growth, and perseverance. This week, we shine a light on Ms. Jan Romeis, a long-standing member of both TRTA and the Humble RTA, whose story reminds us that strength, both physical and mental, has […]
A Historic First For the City of El Paso, 80th Anniversary
Original research and editing in 2025 by Henry Wright Dunbar, EPRTA The El Paso Retired Teachers Association celebrated their 80th Anniversary [Ruby Jubilee] of their founding in 1945 on September 17, 2025. The featured speaker at the luncheon was Mr. Tim Lee, Executive Director of the Texas Retired Teachers Association. This year’s President of the […]
Autumn’s Canvas Unfolds in Texas State Parks
In Texas, fall isn’t just a season – it’s a collection of experiences that celebrate community, color, and discovery. The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is excited about the change of seasons, so we’ve put together a short list highlighting four state parks: Lost Maples, Daingerfield, Garner, and Caddo Lake. Each park offers visitors unique […]
47,146 Hours and 7,227 Books
What an exciting time to be part of the San Antonio Area Retired Teachers Association (SAARTA)! Our officers, board, and members started this year fully engaged and ready to energize our retirees with an array of great programs, activities, and field trips. Members are committed to ensuring that the legacy of SAARTA continues. We began […]