Newly-elected president Sue Barker of West Grayson Retired School Personnel Association (WGRSPA) welcomed 27 members and guests, Grayson College President Dr. Jerry McMillen and VP of Engagement and Outreach Dr. Molly Harris, to its Sept. 3 meeting.
Dr. McMillen shared news of the exciting changes coming to Grayson College. The expansion in the size of the technical facility, completed in time for the beginning of this fall semester, is already training electrical technicians for the growing need here as a result of the tech companies moving into the area.
Members and guests were able to learn of the plans and view some drawings moving ahead for a new multi-story health sciences building, which will serve those seeking a Bachelor of Science in nursing and the other health science degrees that Grayson offers.
Also in the plans are another residence dormitory to accommodate more students that need on-campus housing and expansions at the South Campus of Grayson, located in Van Alstyne.
In addition, Grayson College Foundation offers financial aid as well as emergency funds to students who may face financial emergencies that would keep them from being able to complete classes.
Dr. McMillen expressed his thanks for the passage of the bond this spring, which will allow Grayson to continue to provide affordable educational choices to graduates and those seeking training in multi-technical and vocational certifications that provide higher paying jobs and expanded opportunity for those living in this area.
In other business, WGRSPA is now accepting orders for its annual pumpkin painting project, which is its only fund-raising project each year. This project funds the book project that provides books to each third grade student in the four schools that make up WGRSP (Whitesboro, Collinsville, Tioga and S&S). It also provides contributions to the middle and high school libraries of the schools, scholarships for education majors, contributions to the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) Foundation that provides grants to classroom teachers and financial aid to retirees through its “A Helping Hand” program.
At the next meeting of the WGRSPA on Oct. 1, the following candidates have accepted invitations to speak: Pam Drake (D) and Shelley Luther (R) running for Texas House District 62, Senate District 30 Dale Frey (D), State Board of Education District 12 Pam Little (R) and George King (D), and US Congressional 4th District Simon Cordell (D).
Interested persons are invited to attend this informative meeting.
WGRSPA is a local chapter of TRTA, which encompasses all public school employees of districts throughout the state. Through its local chapters, TRTA works to continue to preserve the defined benefit retirement system, advocate for increases in TRS annuities, provide affordable health care and promote the well being of its members.
Membership is $10 for local dues and $35 state dues, which helps to fund five lobbyists who work year round to advocate for all TRS annuitants. WGRSPA meets the first Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at La Hacienda Restaurant in Whitesboro.
All TRS retirees in the area are encouraged to join.
