UNIT SPOTLIGHT: Bogalusa RTA

Once a teacher always a teacher. Even in their retirement years, some retired teachers find their way back into the classroom. Members of the Bogalusa RTA continue to make an impact on students and their communities.

For several years, Bogalusa RTA has “adopted” local schools and, as a Unit, volunteered with the students and staff. They especially try to work with schools with students in the most need. Volunteer projects would include reading with students and teaching character-building lessons. If members were unable to volunteer in person, they would often bring donations with them for the school.

Bogalusa RTA member Lazette Watterson decorating Northside Alternative School.

In 2020, Bogalusa RTA adopted Northside Alternative School. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, members would mentor the students and teach classes on building character. These lessons were through the Teach One Lead One program in partnership with the District Attorney’s office. Bogalusa RTA member Lazette Watterson found working with Northside Alternative School particularly rewarding.

“I feel like these are the students that need our help the most,” says Lazette.

Like many other events and projects, the COVID-19 brought Bogalusa RTA’s volunteerism to a halt. In 2021, Bogalusa RTA started slowly transitioning back into their work with Northside Alternative School. Lazette volunteered to beautify the campus in preparation for the fall season. They hope to return to mentoring students in January.

Bogalusa RTA members Alva Martin and Lazette Watterson preparing gift bags for Unit members.

In the meantime, Bogalusa RTA has turned some of their focus on their Unit members. Not wanting anyone to feel left out of the holiday activities, Lazette and fellow Bogalusa RTA member Alva Martin visited their oldest members with goody bags in November. They plan to continue this activity after the Christmas holiday.

“We’re still reaching out to our members, either through calls or texts, so we can stay in touch with each other,” says Bogalusa RTA President JoAnna Frazier. “We are still doing some service projects despite the challenges that we face because we want our members to stay informed and updated.”

For new local Units or Units who are reactivating, group community projects may seem intimidating without a large membership base. However, even a small group of members can make a difference. “It can be one or two individuals, it doesn’t have to be the whole group,” says Lazette.  

Of course, Bogalusa RTA is looking forward to more members joining in on these initiatives in 2022 when they resume their regular meetings.

For more information about Bogalusa RTA, contact Unit President JoAnna Frazier at (985) 750-0028.

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