The Jefferson County Retired Teachers Association recently recognized 19 local educators through its Active Teacher Grants Program, awarding more than $4,300 in classroom grants funded entirely by retired teachers in the community.

According Anita Strange, the organization’s secretary, the association has sponsored the grant program for the past decade. The grants are designed to help teachers purchase classroom resources and materials. Sabrina Thomas, coordinator of the Active Teacher Grants Program, presented the checks to recipients.

During the meeting, Thomas reported the organization had received nine applications for the latest round of grants and had extended the deadline through the Friday before spring break.

The meeting also included discussion about the future of the Jefferson County Retired Teachers Association. Minutes reflect that the group currently has no slate of officers willing to serve for the 2026-2027 term, prompting conversations about dissolving the local association.

Members discussed options for continued involvement through other organizations, including the Hamblen County Retired Teachers Association, Tennessee Retired Teachers Association, and the National Retired Teachers Association.

As part of the meeting program, Cindy Stelzman introduced Sherry Sharp of the Hamblen County Retired Teachers Association. Sharp shared information about the Hamblen group, which has 41 members and meets regularly at O’Charley’s during several months of the year. She also noted that Jefferson County retirees would be welcome to attend.

The Hamblen association awards two $500 scholarships annually, one to an East High School student and one to a West High School student.

A discussion followed regarding possible disbandment procedures and membership dues connected to local, state, and national retired teacher organizations.

Despite uncertainty surrounding the future of the local association, the Jefferson County Retired Teachers Association plans to present the latest Active Teacher Grant winners during its June quarterly meeting.