The Atchison-Holt MRTA Unit recently assisted in presenting two $500 classroom grants to Mound City School teachers Sarah Osburn and Becky Reining. The Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation (MRTF) awards nearly 100 grants a year. Nine are awarded to Region 1 which includes Mound City, Nodaway-Holt, South Holt, Craig, Fairfax, Tarkio, Rock Port and several other school districts. MRTF is a partner with the Missouri Retired Teachers Association (MRTA).

The local MRTA unit contributes to the fundraising for these grants. The Atchison-Holt MRTA Unit meets four times a year for socialization, education, and legislative updates. They meet for lunch or brunch and always have a speaker or a program. Atchison and Holt County school administrators are always welcome to attend. A monetary donation is collected at each meeting and given to local food pantries. Chairs of the various committees report on legislative issues, scams that prey on the older population, travel opportunities for older adults, and other matters of interest. Dues are only $10.

If you are a retired educator or other retired school employee, come be a part of an organization that is a watchdog for your retirement funds and also a help to current education personnel. Contact any one of the officers for meeting dates and places: Phyllis Dannar, president, 660-446-3479; Carol Brandon, vice-president, 660-442-3754; Jodie Kurta, secretary, 660-446-2027; or Rana Killingsworth, treasurer, 660-928-3494.