The Emanuel Retired Educators Association held its first meeting for 2026-27 in the Swainsboro Middle School Media Center on Wednesday, September 16, at noon. The theme for Georgia Retired Educators is “Sound the Trumpet, Fellowship, Service, Support”. In keeping with the theme, special music was provided by Swainsboro Middle School band director Tylan Davis and students Blake Johnson and Trey Powell. Their musical presentation was a wonderful addition to the meeting.
After the special music, President Teresa Bright welcomed members and called the meeting to order. Swainsboro Middle School principal Mr. Joshua Anderson welcomed the group and expressed his appreciation to the retirees for their years of service and dedication to education. The invocation was given by Reverend Ellis Strobridge, and members were treated to a delicious meal prepared by the Swainsboro Middle School food service staff.
The program was provided by Johnny Smith, Georgia Retired Educators Association’s Executive Director (GREA). Smith shared highlights from his career in education, during which he taught Chemistry at East Hall High School for thirty-five years. He has served as GREA executive director since October of 2025. During his tenure, he has traveled approximately 7,000 miles visiting GREA Units around the state. Smith emphasized the importance of GREA and the role it plays in promoting the well-being of retirees and advocating for legislation that benefits them. He also reminded members that the open enrollment for health insurance will be held October 19 through November 6. Smith concluded his presentation by challenging members to invite one person to become a member of GREA and EREA.
President Bright led the business portion of the meeting. She informed the group that GREA is giving each unit $350 to use for Treat for Teachers. Donuts were provided earlier in the day for the Swainsboro Middle School staff. She also shared that GREA President Sallie Mill’s special project is to support the American Diabetes Association. A collection will be taken at each EREA meeting for this worthy cause. EREA continues to support the Sunshine Advocacy Center through monthly donations. Members will also donate school supplies for each host school throughout the year. A generous supply of school materials was donated to Swainsboro Middle School.
EREA wishes to thank Swainsboro Middle School staff for the warm hospitality they extended to the group. The next meeting will be held at noon on Wednesday, October 21 at Swainsboro Primary School. Emanuel County Schools Superintendent Dr. Denise Warnock will provide the program.
