The Douglas and Ozark Counties Retired Teachers and Other School Personnel met Tuesday, December 13 for lunch at the Pizza Hut. RTA president Marie Bristol welcomed members and guests. Betty Moore gave the invocation before lunch.
RTA members, Marie Bristol, Lena Pierce, Julane Williams, Norma Stillings, Kay Transano, Ruth Evans, Betty Moore, Ida Mae Huse, Geraldine Gray, Terri Hall, David Davidson, Mary Kay Davidson, Barbara Groover, Sybil Gheer, and Jena Moyer, enjoyed a presentation of Christmas Music by members of the Ava High School Chamber Choir, under the direction of Michelle Wolfskill. This was the last presentation of the season for that group. They are obviously very talented and well trained.
Following that presentation, Dr. Brian Wilson, Ava R-1 Superintendent gave the retirees information on potential modifications to the operation of the Ava R-1 School System. There have been short falls in revenues and increases in costs faced by most public agencies. The Ava school system is no exception. The school board must reduce spending and still offer Ava students a quality education.
Dr. Wilson discussed some of the modifications that have been suggested that would impact the 2013 school year. One positive note was receipt of the 21st Century Grant that funds an after school program. This can offset some losses. Dr. Wilson answered several questions put to him by the retirees.
A short business meeting followed the programs. Minutes and treasurer’s reports were presented and accepted as read. The group signed a Christmas Card for Gladys Long former Ava teacher, who had been in the hospital.
Marie gave a Legislative Committee reminder that the MRTA Legislative Day would be held February in Jefferson City. A bus will be leaving the parking lot at Sam’s early and making a stop at Lebanon. The cost to ride the bus will be $10. Reservations must be made before February 1.
Membership applications were mailed to RTA members who had not already paid their dues in person at a meeting. Marie also reminded retirees to turn in their Community Service hours. The purchase of Christmas gifts for Nursing Home residents is to be delayed to the spring when residents will not be getting other gifts. There will be a planning meeting in January and the next RTA meeting will be in March.
