Tennessee Retired Teachers' Association

October 16--The Oak Ridge RTA met at the Oak Ridge Senior Citizen Building. Dr. Mark Buckner was the guest speaker. Dr. Buckner holds two degrees in Physics and Psychology and a Master’s in Nuclear Engineering. His Doctorate is in Applied Artificial Intelligence. He retired from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and he now works as an instructor at Oak Ridge HS where he coaches their Robotics team. Meeting report submitted by Recording Secretary Judy Dyer. 

Sept. 11 – Oak Ridge RTA met at Oak Ridge Senior Citizen Center for a general business meeting. Guest speaker John Spratling spoke about a planned memorial honoring the students who became the first to desegregate a public school in the Southeastern United States.

--Judy Dyer reporting

Sept. 6 – Paris-Henry Co. RTA met at Tom’s Pizza and Steak House in Paris, TN, for a regular meeting with guest speakers. -- Becky White reporting

November 13th--The November meeting of the RCRTA was full of activities. President Stanley opened the meeting by welcoming all members and guests.

We had much to celebrate as this is American Education Week.  Our guests included new retirees Rebecca Roberson and Elizabeth and Mike Morris. Melanie Dickerson, Acting Director of Schools, and Duran Williams, Executive Director of TRTA, were also in attendance.  

Mike Morris blessed the meal and all in attendance. Kathy McClelland, our caterer, served a wonderful Thanksgiving based meal. After the meal, Ms. Dickerson gave a brief presentation on the state of Robertson County Schools. The schools are doing wonderful things and are looking forward to welcoming the new director, Danny Weeks, on December 1st. 

Dr. Williams then spoke.  He began with some background on his teaching and coaching career.  Much of his family is also involved in the teaching profession. He reported on the activities that the TRTA are working. These included COLA and the Federal monies that Tennessee may refuse.  He also encouraged teachers to take advantage of the credit monitoring offer that is being provided due to the security breach. He ended by thanking the teachers for their service and encouraged them to continue to work to help education by being actively involved in the legislative process.

After a short business meeting, members were encouraged to purchase baked and canned goods provided by members.  Our bake sale finances the scholarship given by the RCRTA to a graduating senior that plans to get into education. Our meeting was held at the Central Office building, allowing the staff to also share in the bake sale.  Door prizes were won by Joan James and Judy Fentress. 

Sept. 11 – Robertson Co. RTA met at Robertson Co. Senior Center for a regular membership meeting. Guest speaker was author Rick Gregory who spoke about his book, “Red River Tales.” --Dawn Brading reporting.