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, […]
The Legacy of Al Edwards: Honoring the Father of Juneteenth
Albert Ely “Al” Edwards, former Texas State Representative and lifelong civil rights activist, left an indelible mark on American history through his diligent advocacy for equality and justice. Serving more than three decades in the Texas Legislature, Edwards was instrumental in the passage of House Bill 1016 in 1979, making Texas the first state to […]
A Tasty Tale: TRTA Member, Gary Schepf, Travels Across Texas to Find the ‘Perfect’ Chicken Fried Steak
Gary Schepf, TRTA’s State Secretary and Treasurer, has traveled this vast Lone Star State in pursuit of the ‘perfect’ chicken fried steak. With us, he provides his findings, an exhaustive, well-documented guide which we’re eager to share, knowing that you too will find his journal fascinating, possibly inspiring. Yet, before we cut to the meat […]
“A Life Dedicated to Education, A Legacy of Love”
Honoring Mrs. Cathy Walker’s Extraordinary 52 Years of Service At a monumental turning point, Mrs. Cathy Walker set off on the path to retirement this past week. Beginning her 52-year teaching career in 1974 at Palestine Elementary School, she taught one year and then went on to devote the remaining years to teaching and caring for […]
Retired Lunch Lady Dedicates Life to Providing Warmth and Happiness to Children
Each year, La Verne Redman produces approximately 250 quilts for middle school children at Miles Independent School District. Redman is 89 years old and works year-round make the quilts from donated fabric. The quilts are distributed through the school in early December, and they provide a special source of comfort and meaning for the students […]
Celebrating Children on the Lawn: A Rededication to the ‘Tribute to Texas Children’ Memorial
The Texas Retired Teacher Association (TRTA) is honored to showcase a monumental dedication from past and present: Tribute to Texas Children. In collaboration with the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA), TRTA participated in a rededication of the Tribute to Texas Children monument that sits on the north lawn of the Texas Capitol. During […]
A Mother and Daughter’s Special Bond Through Teaching
Wanda Kirkpatrick celebrated her 90th birthday last year, and her daughter, Mechele Ussery, hosted a celebration in Ballinger, Texas. More than 100 guests attended, including 20 teachers from Plano, Carrollton-Farmers Branch, and Grapevine – districts where Wanda left her mark as an educator. Their shared path in education began at Litchfield Park Elementary in Arizona, […]
MJ Hamilton – A Life Filled with Purpose
Mary Jane “MJ” Hamilton lived her life with passion, purpose, and dedication. She retired in 1996 and moved to Allen, Texas, where she helped start the Allen Retired Educators Association. Having worked in schools for more than 30 years as an elementary teacher, counselor, and associate psychologist working with Special Education students, Hamilton was no […]
Sunflower Lady’s Legacy Continues to Grow
As a University of Texas graduate having earned multiple degrees, Dr. Susana Alemán devoted her entire career to the field of education, touching the lives of many. Her work in secondary and post-secondary education within the public schools offered her the opportunity to work with students in various capacities at Austin ISD, Falfurrias High School, Austin […]
Driven to Go the Extra Mile – Jeanne Paull-Turner
A self-described “firecracker,” Jeanne Paull-Turner is always taking the opportunity to tell people about the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) and the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF). Whether it’s talking to strangers in the line at a gas station, or communicating with Texas legislators at the Capitol, Jeanne is continuously finding ways to promote TRTA’s […]