The DeWitt County Retired School Personnel met in the boardroom of the Cuero Independent School District with President Sandra Tate calling the meeting to order Feb. 17.
Secretary Joyce Warwas presented the minutes of the previous meeting while Judy Faulkner issued a financial statement. Both were approved as presented.
Judy Fetters, scholarship chairperson reported that info for scholarships has been sent to schools. Carol Semper, technology chairperson, told the group that new technology is confusing and AI in particular is causing individuals to need to be careful about all technology communications.
Linda Hemphill, healthy living chair reminded the group that February is American Heart Month. She handed out information about heart health and also mentioned that flu COVID, and RSV are on the rise in the community.
The District House of Delegates will meet in Edna on March 25. Any retired school personnel wanting to attend can do so, but a count is needed. Two delegates will represent the group at a virtual meeting in Austin. Amendments and bylaws to be voted on are described in The Voice for this month.
Tate reported that members of DWCRSP have contributed 10,037 hours of community service to the DeWitt County area. Besides supporting Deputy Santa, local rest homes, and issuing a scholarship each year, this group serves as volunteers in many aspects of community life.
District Legislative chair Becky Williams pointed out that the Texas Legislature passes all laws pertaining to teacher retirement. The TRS System of Texas administers those laws by investing contributions from active school employees, issuing annuity checks, and providing data so that TRTA can decide on and propose legislation. However TRS cannot influence legislation. Therefore the Texas Retired Teachers Association is the only advocate for the needs of retired school personnel. TRTA works exclusively for annuitants on matters concerning annuity payments and the TRTA insurance.
New officers for the 2026-28 years were installed by District 3 President Joni Barber. They include President Leslie Ahrens, First Vice President Dianna Bartosh, Second Vice President Sandra Tate, Treasurer Judy Faulkner, and Secretary Joyce Ann Warwas.
Any retired person who is part of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, regardless of where the service was rendered, is eligible to belong to the DeWitt County Retired School Personnel. Meetings are regularly held the third Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Cuero ISD Administration Building. For more information, call President Sandra Tate at 361-275-4370.
