Welcome to

DuPage Illinois Retired Teachers Association (DIRTA)

We are proud to serve as the local unit representing retired educators in DuPage County, and we are a dedicated member of the Illinois Retired Teachers Association (IRTA)

ABOUT DUPAGE LOCAL IRTA

At DIRTA, we take pride in being the local voice for retired teachers in DuPage County. Established to support and connect retired educators, our association is a proud member of the Illinois Retired Teachers Association (IRTA). Our commitment extends beyond the classroom, creating a network that
celebrates the contributions of retired teachers and fosters a sense of community.

Discover a community of retired educators committed to fostering connections, sharing experiences, and embracing the joy of retirement. Explore our website to find valuable resources, upcoming events, and the latest news.
Join us in celebrating the vibrant tapestry of knowledge and experience that defines our association.

Breaking News


Updates on the New Health Insurance Plan for 2025


This is an excellent opportunity to hear about these exciting changes firsthand and how they will impact our coverage for the upcoming year

Additional coverage for Dental and Vision

Other important updates on our health plan

Details:
IRTA Vice-President Rainy Kaplan / speaker

Oct 9th

Stevens Restaurant, Woodridge

at noon

Don't miss this chance to stay informed and ask any questions you may have. We look forward to seeing you there!

Newsletters

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Summer Happenings

July 12, 20243 min read

Dear members,

Welcome to the DupageIRTA summer newsletter! We hope you are enjoying the warm months and taking advantage of the many activities and opportunities we offer. Thank you for participating in our meeting on June 12th.

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Confused About Acronyms?

Barbara Grabowski, FYI Chair, West Lake Shore Unit

We understand that the variety of acronyms can be confusing. Here is a quick guide to help you better understand the organizations and programs affecting retired educators in Illinois:

  • IRTA (Illinois Retired Teachers Association): This state organization is dedicated solely to retired teacher issues, including monitoring retirement issues, lobbying, and legal action.

  • DIRTA (DuPage Unit of IRTA): Our local unit focuses on pensions and healthcare for retirees, offering programs, social opportunities, and a quarterly newsletter. Visit dupageirta.org for more information.

  • IEA (Illinois Education Association) and IFT (Illinois Federation of Teachers): Unions for active teachers, with retiree branches.

  • TRS (Teachers’ Retirement System): Manages the state's pension program. Members should create a profile at trsil.org.

  • TRIP (Teachers’ Retirement Insurance Program): Health insurance for TRS members under 65 or without Medicare.

  • TRAIL (Total Retiree Advantage Plan): Health insurance for retirees 65+ with Medicare.

  • CMS (Central Management System): Manages TRIP and TRAIL.

IRTA Hotline

For the latest information on legislation regarding pensions and health insurance, call the IRTA office at 1-800-728-4782 or visit irtaonline.org.

Other Useful Numbers

  • Teachers’ Retirement System:

    1-800-728-4782, members@trsil.org or visit trsil.org

  • Central Management Services:

    Benefits: 800-442-1300 or 217-782-2548.

If you haven't recently visited the TRS website or have never done so, update your information or create a profile with TRS. Check your spousal beneficiary. Write down your TRS number for future use or print a TRS membership card.

Check your inbox on the 1st and 15th of each month for Good Dog News which contains legislative updates, events, and articles of interest.

Watch your inbox and spam box for invitations to special events such as:

Updates from Jessica Hoselton, Executive Director of IRTA.

Mark Your Calendar

  • September 26: Attorney General

  • October: Darren LaHood

  • November: Illinois Department of Natural Resources

  • December: Chris Welch

Area Conferences

Watch for an invite in your inbox:

  • Area 3: June 27

  • Area 5: July 10

  • Area 4: July 17

  • Area 6: July 24

IRTA Educational Webinar Series (9:00 A.M.)

  • June 26: All About Your Dental and Vision Plans

  • July 31: All About Long Term Care

  • August 21: Protecting Your Nest Egg

  • September 18: Life 101

  • October 16: The Basics of Medicare

  • November 13: All About Long Term Care

  • December 4: Holiday Discounts for IRTA Members

    IRTA Scholarship Recipient

    At the May DuPage membership meeting, Annabella Chlada from Darien, Illinois, was awarded the Area 3 IRTA $2000 scholarship. Annabella will be entering her senior year at Illinois State University, majoring in special education. For more information, visit irtaonline.org.your email.

    Electronic-Notary Service Now Available

    Illinoisans can now get documents notarized electronically from home. The new E-Notary service, administered by the Illinois Secretary of State's Office, uses electronic signatures and remote certificates and seals. Customers need an audio-video platform for E-Notary, an ID, and fees may apply (capped at $25). To find a remote notary, visit Notary Search.

    Upcoming Dupage Meeting: Save the Date!

    Make sure to reserve the following dates for our upcoming meetings:

    • September 11

    • October 9

    • December 11

    We look forward to your attendance and active participation!

    dirta

    Refer a Retired Teacher

    Help us grow our community! If you know any retired teachers who would benefit from DIRTA support, please refer them to us. Together, we can ensure that all retired educators receive the benefits and protections they deserve.

    Membership

    Thank you once again for your continued support and participation. We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.

    Best regards,

    Dalcia Castillo

    DuPage Illinois Retired Teachers Association (DIRTA)


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Community Connections

Join a vibrant community of retired teachers dedicated to mutual support and camaraderie

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Advocacy

Benefit from our strong advocacy efforts, ensuring the well-being and interests of retired educators are heard and represented

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Resources

Access valuable resources, events, and information tailored to enhance your retired life.

Preserving Legacies, Fostering Well-being Our Mission at DIRTA

Professional Well-being

We strive to maintain and enhance the professional well-being of our retired educators. By providing a platform for continued engagement and learning, we support our members in staying connected with the ever-evolving landscape of education. DIRTA is committed to being a resource.

Social Connection

Retirement marks a transition, and at DIRTA, we understand the importance of social connection during this phase of life. Our community is designed to foster meaningful connections among retired educators, creating a support system that extends beyond the classroom.

Economic Well-being

Economic well-being is a critical aspect of a fulfilling retirement. DIRTA actively advocates for the economic rights and benefits of retired teachers. We work to ensure that our members have access to the resources and information needed to navigate the financial landscape of retirement confidently

Why Join DIRTA: Empowering Your Retirement Journey

Embark on a fulfilling retirement experience by becoming a member of the DuPage Illinois Retired Teachers Association (DIRTA). Discover the compelling reasons why joining our community is the key to empowering your retirement journey.

Unlocking Benefits: The Advantages of Joining DIRTA

Explore the myriad benefits and advantages that come with joining the DuPage Illinois Retired Teachers Association (DIRTA). Enrich your retirement experience and tap into a world of opportunities designed to support, connect, and celebrate the esteemed community of retired educators in DuPage County.

What We Do

Discover the impactful initiatives and services that define the mission of DuPage Illinois Retired Teachers Association (DIRTA). Here's a glimpse into what we do to champion the well-being and continued success of retired educators in DuPage County

Advocacy

We are the voice of retired educators in DuPage County. We actively lobby on behalf of our members at both the local and state levels, ensuring that the rights and benefits of retired teachers are protected and enhanced

Community Engagement

Our association organizes a plethora of events, workshops, and seminars that foster community engagement, lifelong learning, and social interaction among our members.

Support & Resources

DIRTA provides its members with valuable resources, guidance, and support on matters related to retirement, health benefits, financial planning, and more

Philanthropy

Believing in the power of giving back, we routinely engage in community service projects and support educational initiatives within DuPage County

Hear From Our Members

Sandra. Brennan

I have been a member of IRTA and of DIRTA.

Having access to these websites has kept me informed and current with the news and actions at the State and local level. This provides me with information re. meetings, legislation, benefits, membership updates and trips.

Charles. Hlavaty

Upon retiring in 2004 I joined IRTA Lifetime for the protection of my TRS Pension, Insurance, and AMBA Member Benefits. DuPage Unit gave me an opportunity to learn, share and develop my leadership skills, serving with other fabulous colleagues. I expanded my knowledge on all my retired benefits and opportunities.

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