victoria-locke_web.jpgWEST PALM BEACH — The Palm Beach County Teachers Association-Retired organization recently awarded college scholarships to two students. Victoria M. Locke is a 2013 graduate of summit Christian School in West Palm Beach, going to Edison State College in Fort Myers for a major in emergency medical therapy. She is the granddaughter of Eunice Locke.

Shanice McKenzie, a graduate of Jupiter Community High School, is going to Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton and majoring in psychology. She is the daughter of Craig and Valerie Tatum and granddaughter of John and Venelean Simpkins.

“Supporting teachers and those involved in the areas of education is what we as retirees are most passionate about,” said Kay W. Brown, CTA-Retired president.

The organization averages more than 600 volunteer hours each month among its more than 100 members, including many lifetime memberships, Brown said.

In addition to its scholarship endeavors and support of working educators, the group encourages teachers to apply for Florida Education Association grants, participates in communityprojects and travel within the state, hosts monthly meetings and speakers, and enjoys cruises to exotic places and good fun.

“Public education is under constant attack,” said Brown. “The CTA-Retirees serve as a positive force for educators, parents and students who still believe that public education and its ideals are worth fighting for and saving.”

The organization meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at the CTA complex, 715 Spencer Drive in West Palm Beach. Featured Sept. 10 is Melissa Campbell of Metro Crime Prevention of Florida.

Other meetings scheduled during the new academic year include:

Oct. 8 — Robert Kiesling, Tax Advisory of Palm Beach, Inc., Part I

Nov. 12 — Part II

Dec. 10 — Christmas Luncheon

Jan. 14 — Jorge Gonzalez, Synergy Financial Group

Feb. 11 — Black History Month Celebration: Ethnic Meal

March 11 — Crime Prevention & Personal Safety

April 8 — Arleatha Henderson, Prudential Insurance Co.

May 13 — Cristine Clements, Horace Mann Insurance

June 10 — Annual CTA-Retired Picnic, Phil Foster Park, Riviera Beach

For other information call 561-784-8809 or 561-683-4623

Picture above Victoria M. Locke