News

As we turn the calendar to September, we may feel the air beginning to cool and the vibrant colours of autumn start to appear. It’s a time of transition — not only in nature but also in our routines. As you may remember, for many teachers and students, September is associated with back-to-school energy, renewed purpose, and the quiet shift from summer’s leisure into more structured days. For us, as retired educators and lifelong learners, it’s the perfect moment to re-engage with our communities, reinvest in our well-being, and celebrate the roles that we continue to play in society.

One of the themes I want to highlight this month is staying active. Whether it’s walking in a local park, gardening, swimming, cycling, or joining a local yoga class, physical activity remains one of the most important ways we can maintain our health and independence as well as slow down the onset of many symptoms that are associated with aging. Research consistently shows that regular movement helps boost energy, improves mood, reduces the risk of chronic illness, and enhances overall quality of life.

The benefits of staying active aren’t just physical — they’re deeply social and emotional, too. Now that many of us have the gift of time because of retirement, this season offers an excellent opportunity to re-commit to our own wellness. That doesn’t necessarily mean intense workouts or big goals — even daily stretching, light resistance training, or dancing in the living room to your favourite music or playlist can make a difference. The key is consistency and enjoyment. Movement should feel good and fit naturally into your lifestyle. September is also a great time to re-connect through service in your communities. Our lives as active teachers were spent in service — guiding, mentoring, leading, and caring for others. This spirit doesn’t retire when we do.

Across the country, organizations are seeking the experience, wisdom, and dedication that we, as retired professionals, offer. Whether it’s reading with children at a classroom or the library, mentoring young teachers, helping at community centres, supporting food banks, or serving on local boards or committees, your contributions are invaluable. Volunteering not only benefits the organizations and people we support — it also gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. It keeps us mentally sharp, socially connected, and emotionally fulfilled. Many of you are already active volunteers, and I want to thank you sincerely for the time and energy you give. If you haven’t yet found a volunteer role that feels right, I encourage you to keep exploring. There’s something for everyone — and someone out there needing your expertise.

At RTAM, The Student Awards Committee met and analyzed all the worthy applicants and selected four that best met the criteria to win the RTAM Student Award. We are also looking forward to the RTAM Golf event on September 5^th at Quarry Oaks Golf Course in Steinbach. Even if you do not play golf, come out and enjoy the drive and meet up some new and existing friends. RTAM is also busy planning for the AGM coming up in November.

As we look ahead to October 1, Canadians will be celebrating National Seniors Day — a moment to recognize the profound contributions older adults make to our families, communities, and nation. It’s a day to honour the legacy of seniors and their ongoing roles as leaders, volunteers, caregivers, and advocates. I encourage all of you to mark October 1 by doing something that reflects the values of National Seniors Day in Canada. Reach out to another member for coffee, share a story of someone who inspires you, or make a plan to volunteer in a way that brings joy. Let us use this day to both recognize and rekindle our purpose.

While it’s important to celebrate this day publicly, let us also take time to appreciate each other — our fellow retired educators — and the incredible impact we’ve had and continue to make. Canada’s National Seniors Day also reminds us that aging is not a decline, but a progression; we are on a journey rich with continued opportunity, creativity, and relevance. We are living longer, healthier lives than generations before us, and with that comes the chance to shape our retirement years not just with rest and relaxation, but with vitality, curiosity, and connection.

As we step into this new season, I want to leave you with a simple thought: We are not retired from life; we are retired into life. Let’s embrace this vibrant stage with the same passion and dedication that defined our teaching years. Let’s remain visible, vocal, and valuable in the communities we helped shape. And let’s continue to support one another — as friends, as mentors, and as advocates.

Wishing you a healthy, meaningful, and an active fall season.

Jayesh Maniar
President