Retrospectives:
June 2025: WSSRA Annual Convention (Yakima, WA)
Miles away but just down the road, Yakima was a great location for the Annual Convention. It took place in the Convention Center, with neighboring and adjacent hotels providing great choices for accomodation. High points of the convention included the installation of our own Dottie Stevens as WSSRA President for the 2025-2026 year, recognition of several members' contributions and service, a huge number of baskets (60!) for drawings and a fantastic Silent Auction. The game/puzzles/relaxation area was also a huge hit!
August 2025: Back to School Picnic Luncheon
The new school year was already in full swing when we enjoyed our picnic style lunch at the Zintel Creek Golf Course Clubhouse on August 25. Lance Hansen, the Superintendent of Kennewick School District was introduced and spoke about his educational experience and his move to the Tri Cities from the Lewiston Independent School District.
September 2025:
Our luncheon guests on September 22nd were Peter Diedrick (WSSRA Executive Director) and Emmett Mills (WSSRA Legislative Director), who gave updates on current WSSRA membership and legislative status and challenges.
October 2025: Halloween Costume Contest!
As a prelude to Halloween, the October Luncheon on October 22nd was also the site of the BFSRA Halloween Contest! Our guest presenter was Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke, who discussed cyber security as it relates to the state, to education, and to individuals. Senator Boehnke sits on the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee as well as the Select Committee for Pension Policy. After his presentation, the winners of the Costume Contest were unmasked -- ooops, I mean announced
First Place: Dale Johns
Second Place: Ramona Mitchell
Third Place: Cindy Morris
November 2025:
The final luncheon of 2025 was held at the Zintel Creek Clubhouse on November 24, 2025. Special events included the annual Salvation Army Toy Drive and collection of school supplies, as well as an engaging presentation by Salvation Army officers. Thanks to the generous donations of our members, over 4 large bags of presents were collected!
On to 2026!
January 12, 2026: The ever-popular and informative Superintendents' Luncheon. Superintendents of the Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland School Districts presented information on the status of their respective districts and the importance of the upcoming February elections/ballots.
Upcoming:
February 23, 2026: Artificial Intelligence (ESD123)
March 23, 2026: Walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage (Portuguese Way)
April 27, 2026: TBA
May 18, 2026: Installation of Officers, Celebration of Life
