The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) Children’s Book Project, which began in 1998, has involved TRTA local chapter members in giving books to children who might not otherwise have books of their own. Since the inception of the book project, more than 900,000 books have been placed into the hands of children who otherwise might never have a book to call their own. In 2023, 143,870 books were distributed as part of the Children’s Book Project.

This year Magic Valley Retired School Personnel Chapter from TRTA District 1 chose Mercedes- Zachary Taylor Elementary School to receive $500 to purchase books for their students.  Maria Gomez, MVRSPA vice president is working with Cecilia Sarmiento, principal and Lynda Garza, librarian to plan the purchase of books and the day to distribute books to children.  Students will receive a book of their own.  Sanjuanita L. Handy, MVRSPA president presented the check to Cecilia Sarmiento, principal