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, retirees, and advocates to change lives and shape communities.
Walking for Fairness
For Wendy Ward, TRTA’s Communications and Multimedia Assistant, one story stood out for its sheer determination. It followed a Lubbock teenager who walked all the way to Washington, D.C., to support the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). His journey symbolized something TRTA members know well: progress often begins with persistence. The story captured the spirit of advocacy that spans generations and showed how young voices can amplify the fight for fairness for retired educators.
Lighting the Way for the Next Generation
Sarah Richardson, Texas Retired Teachers Foundation’s (TRTF) Senior Operations and Programs Advisor, was inspired by a story that highlighted the ripple effect of generosity. Through the support of TRTF donors, STEM teacher Stancey Hubbard-Winer was able to expand opportunities for her students. The story demonstrated how retired educators continue to shape the future—not just through past service, but through ongoing investment in innovation, curiosity, and learning.
A Lifetime of Quiet Service
Laura Rios Escareno, TRTA’s Graphic Designer, chose a story that celebrated compassion in its purest form. It focused on a retired lunch lady who dedicated her life to providing warmth, meals, and happiness to children who needed it most. Her work rarely made headlines, yet her impact was profound. The story served as a reminder that education is supported by many hands, and that kindness can be just as influential as any lesson taught in a classroom.
A Life of Leadership and Public Service
For Brock Gregg, TRTA’s Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships and Member Outreach, the most inspiring story traced the many paths of Congressman Sylvester Turner. From humble beginnings to a lifetime of public service, his journey reflected resilience, leadership, and a commitment to community. The story resonated with TRTA members who understand that education and public service are deeply connected—and that educators often help shape the leaders who go on to serve at the highest levels.
A Musical Legacy That Lives On
Roy Varney, TRTA’s Associate Director of Communications and Multimedia, selected a story close to the heart of Texas culture: the legacy of Zeke Castro, an influential mariachi instructor. Through decades of teaching, Castro preserved tradition, inspired pride, and opened doors for countless students. His story illustrated how educators leave lasting legacies not only through academics, but through art, culture, and identity.
Together, these stories reflect the values that define TRTA—advocacy, service, generosity, leadership, and legacy. As we move into a new year, they remind us that the impact of educators and retirees reaches far beyond retirement, continuing to inspire change across Texas and beyond.
