In 1974, The Texas County Area Retired Teachers Association was organized at the Houston Senior Citizens Center.
It was decided that the group would meet eight times during the year. All retired teachers in the Texas County area were invited to become members.
Those attending and joining the new organization were Mildred Davis, Madge Laws and Lulu Belle Evans, Cabool; Nancy L Griffith, Bucyrus; Sophia Mitchel and Mabel Rennick, Licking; Esther Reeves and Mearl Sponsler, Mountain Grove; Cleo Bandy, Yukon; Althea Wade, Raymondville; J.V. Fugate, Mrs. J.V. Fugate, Goldia McKinney, Opal Ice, Katherine Kelley, Ellen McVay and Zola Maud Hill, Houston.
Fifty years later, this unit currently has about 32 members which now includes all employees of public schools, not just certified teachers. It continues to provide numerous contributions to local communities. This includes donating to area food pantries, supporting local schools through monetary grants, volunteering in the community and at local schools, visiting and promoting local businesses and donating books to the county library in memory of members who have passed away. The unit has been awarded the “MRTA Unit of Excellence” award numerous times.
Being a member of this Texas County unit is a way for former employees of public schools to gather in support of each other and public education. They are diligent in making themselves aware of current legislative information which affects past and present educators. Members share information with others so all can make informed voting decisions. They also work with “soon to be retired” public school employees to help with questions and confusion.
During meetings, members share a meal, learn more about local communities, visit area businesses and attractions. They have great fellowship and laugh a lot, too! If you are a former employee of the public school or want to be an auxiliary member, they would love to include you in their group so that in another 50 years, your name will be there. The first meeting of the year is at 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 10 at First Baptist Church in Houston. For more information, call/text Beth Williamson at 417-967-6870.
