On this page you will find a History of PEA-Retired, a list of some ongoing projects, and PEA honors for two of our members.
The History of Retired Educators' Advocay in Polk County
Founding of Polk Education Retired
In the 1980s, Dexter Hagman served as the Executive Director of the Polk Education Association, an organization affiliated with the Florida Teacher’s Profession – National Education Association (FTP-NEA). Recognizing the unique needs of retiring teachers in Polk County, Hagman set out to establish a dedicated group that would support retired educators and encourage their continued involvement in public school education.
Building Support Among Retirees
For several months, Hagman engaged with recent retirees to understand their concerns and interests. His commitment and perseverance led to the creation of the Polk Education Association Retired, which became one of the oldest organizations of its kind in Florida.
Statewide Expansion and Recognition
Hagman’s efforts drew the attention of FTP-NEA administrators. As a result, he was appointed as a statewide ambassador with the responsibility of forming retiree chapters throughout Florida, including a statewide retiree chapter. This initiative culminated in the successful establishment of the statewide chapter in 1990, with PEA-Retired included as part of the new FTP-NEA Retired organization.
Evolution Through Mergers
In 2000, FTP-NEA merged with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), resulting in the formation of the Florida Education Association, which became the statewide education union. Following this merger, education retirees were organized under the new entity known as FEA-Retired.
The History of Advocacy for Retireed Educators
Some of our ongoing projects:
PEAR support of and participation in the HEARTH PROJECT is major and ongoing. School supplies are collected by PEAR members for donation to the Project throughout the year. We have also provided hygiene kits. Supplies are collected at each PEAR meeting. Anyone can also drop off supplies at the PEA OFFICE in Bartow, 730 E Davidson Street. Anyone can send checks for supplies to PEAR at the Bartow address and supplies will be purchased and delivered to the HEARTH PROJECT office.
Each school year between 3 and 4 thousand of our 117,000+ Polk County Public School students experience homelessness, and additional students are at risk of being homeless. PEAR is proud to be a part of this service to our students by providing school supplies and hygiene products. We know that when students have the tools needed to learn, the work of the teacher is easier.
PEAR recognizes that copy paper is "pure gold" to classroom teachers. Therefore, each school year as many as 80 reams of copy paper are put in the hands of teachers. That works out to an over $600 value of direct support to teachers.
PEAR supports the JACK KINNAMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND, named for the original Cat-in-The-Hat educator, this NEA Foundation administered fund provides scholarships of $3,500.00 to individuals preparing for a career in education. In recent years three Florida students have received scholarships in this nationwide program. PEAR currently contributes $1.00 per member.
PEAR works with FEA-Retired to award grants to active FEA members to provide that little extra that will enhance the learning experience for students. The grants are awarded on the basis of innovative ideas of engaging students in learning activities that stimulate and motivate. Grants are awarded toward the end of the first semester. The grant is for $150.00. PEAR and PEA also awards grants to a PEA member.
PEAR members volunteer in many settings. Some PEAR members volunteer in schools, in churches, in children and youth organizations, clubs, political campaigns, nursing homes, and free clinics, in service to neighbors and those who no longer drive. Really the list of volunteer opportunities is endless, PEAR members are all about staying Involved and continuing to Serve.
PEA Honors Two of Pear Members Who Have a Long History in Leadership
PEA honored Marrianne Capozziello with a mural and board room dedication. Capoziello served as PEA president for sixteen years and was well known in Florida and the nation as a strong supporter and advocate for retired union member organizations.
Rhea McKinney was honored by PEA with a mural and a conference room dedication. McKinney was a long time activest for PEA and upon retirement spent fourteen years in PEA-Retired leadership as vice president, president, and executive Director. He continues as the historian.
