Retired Teachers Attend Dist. 13 Fall Conference

The District 13 Retired Teachers’ Association Fall Conference was held on Sept. 8 at the Plum Creek Events Center in Kyle, with 75 in attendance. Fourteen units (counties) of retired teachers comprise District 13; there are 20 districts in Texas. In attendance from Fayette County were Fayette County President Lisa Slinkard, and Secretary Karen Fitch.

Presentations were given by TRS officers, and Terri Navrkal, TRTA State Secretary and Treasurer. An unexpected visit by Tim Lee (TRS Executive Director) followed, as he thanked District 13 for their tireless work, and encouraged those present to continue to stay organized and motivated, as all move toward retired teachers getting a COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) after 14 years without one. His presence, as always, rejuvenated the spirits of those in the room.

The Memorial Program was a slide presentation of pictures with hymn music, of District 13 retired teachers who had expired this past year. Included from Fayette County were Val Pechal and Barbara Rogers.

The business meeting included the nomination of Larry Yawn, State Legislative Chair, for the EL Gaylean Award, a COLA motion to be presented to the 88th Texas Legislature, and adoption of the District 13 2022-2023 Budget. Upcoming dates to remember: Day at the Capitol, April 12, 2023, and the Spring Leadership Conference on May 11, 2023.

For more information about the Fayette County Retired Teachers’Association, call (361) 772-3068, or visit www.localunits. org/fayette. While the name may imply only teachers, all retired public school personnel are invited, and will be welcome, even if from another city, county, or state.