Tag: retiree

Engaging Retiring/Retired Educators

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Ask not what NAfME or your state MEA can do for you, but what YOU, a retiree, can do for your professional association and music education.
– An adaptation of the famous excerpt from the 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address of January 20, 1961.

Surfing the ‘Net, I found an appropriate acronym for R.E.T.I.R.E. by Tangled Tulip Designs in pinterest – Relax, Entertain, Travel, Indulge, Read and Enjoy! Most retirees would probably agree! The cessation of full-time employment may offer a great release from the day-to-day stress and drudgery of the job and the freedom to venture out, self-reinvent, make future goals, nurture relationships, and explore new personal growth opportunities.

Many attribute embracing a career in music education as “a calling” as opposed to just a form of employment or livelihood. From my experience, I have witnessed that most music educators are passionate for the cause of fostering creative self-expression in their students, more of a 24/7 mission, bringing intense focus and dedication to their lifework.

More to the point: Do we ever truly retire from making music ourselves and fostering this love in others?

THE “WHY!” Retirees matter and are critically needed!

One of my favorite inspirational speakers (Simon Sinek) would say, “start with the WHY!” WHY is this discussion on professional engagement of retired educators so important today?

  1. Their need: An informal poll of my former local educators and administrators revealed that half of them “hate retirement!” According to Dr. Robert P. Delamontagne in his book Retiring Mind (Fairview Imprints), “50% of retirees will suffer some form of acute emotional distress. This is potentially a very large problem given the fact that 10,000 people are becoming eligible for Social Security every day for the next 20 years in the US alone.” Remember this statistic the next time a senior citizen cuts you off on the road or bangs a shopping cart into your leg at the checkout!
  2. Our need: We are facing shortages of qualified teaching candidates across the country with unfilled openings in public school music positions and the critical need of training/mentoring the new hires.
  3. Society’s need: All of our voices should be combined to support the advocacy of music education, actively promoting access to school music by sharing its academic and social benefits with decision-makers, building relationships with administrators and policymakers, and utilizing resources from organizations like NAfME and the NAMM Foundation.

Despite its proven benefits, music education is often the first program to face budget cuts in schools. This is especially concerning in underserved communities, where access to music programs can be life-changing. Now more than ever, we must advocate for music education to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience its benefits. Investing in music education is an investment in the future of our communities — helping to cultivate the next generation of creative, resilient, and innovative leaders. 
– “Why Music Education Matters More Now Than Ever” by Music Will, February 2025

For eleven years (and counting), I serve as the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Retired Member State Coordinator, as well as the Past State Chair (current member) of the PMEA Council for Teacher Training, Recruitment and Retention. I believe my responsibility to the state association is two-fold:

  • Assist soon-to-retire professionals in achieving a smooth transition to a happy and satisfying retirement; to help them cope with the commonly-experienced emotional ups-and-downs of this life passage, wrestling with the question “what do you want to be or do when you grow up?” and making new life lesson plans and personal goals.
  • Reach out to and build meaningful connections with retirees in order to fully engage them towards becoming active in their professional association; to recount, represent, and revitalize the activities of our post full-time employed music educators.

This article proposes a roadmap of crucial pathways to help music teachers approach “retirement bliss” while tapping into their hard-earned knowledge, strengths, and experiences by cultivating the benefits of their renewed participation in our professional associations.

What can NAfME and State MEAs offer retirees?

You have devoted your entire life to inspiring the development of personal artistry and “ah-ha” musical moments in others. Now it is your turn to reap the benefits (and privileges) of this commitment to the profession. NAfME and your MEAs can provide the resources and motivation of “sharing and caring,” directing retirees “places to go, people to meet, and things to do” for fulfilling that “next chapter” or (perhaps better terms) the “refirement” or “rewirement” of senior living.

Do you feel “needed” and know you “make a difference?” Research has shown that the one of the most important motivators for involvement in a professional association is that its members recognize that they are essential to its success. This quote is from Revitalizing Retirement: Reshaping Your Identity, Relationships, and Purpose by Nancy Schlossberg, attributed to Rosenberg/McCullough:

 “It has been suggested that one problem of retirement is that one no longer matters; others no longer depend on us… The reward of retirement, involving a surcease from labor, can be the punishment of not mattering. Existence loses its point and savor when one no longer makes a difference.”

Most people who are one to five years away from “pulling their pin” and putting in their walking papers “do not know what they do not know.” Experts agree: “Retirement preparation is not only about the money!” Our silver-haired colleagues who have already Crossed the Rubicon and are now “living the dream” in retirement can share their trials, tribulations, and (more importantly) numerous success stories about coping with this transition!

NAfME, PMEA and this paulfox.blog/for-retirees site have archived an exhaustive number of self-help articles. Check out this omnibus NAfME blog “Retirement Prep Top-Ten Treasures.”

The benefits of retired MEA membership are numerous. Besides providing helpful transitioning advice, these advantages also come to mind:

  1. Answers to questions like “What have you always wanted to sing, compose, play, record, conduct, write, publish or present?” and “Where can I share my hard-won expertise and help others in the field?”
  2. Networks and contacts to help you develop “encore careers” in other musical or educational arenas (e.g., higher education, music industry, festival organization, travel/tour planning, composition, guest conducting, private studio teaching, church music, etc.)
  3. Opportunities to “rekindle your expressiveness” by participation in adult community or full/part time performance groups (playing “gigs”)
  4. Places to go/things to see/hear: NAfME/MEA conferences, workshops, and concerts
  5. Exclusive discounts and other benefits (reduced dues and registration fees)

What can retirees offer NAfME and their state MEA?

The relationship of active and retired membership in our MEAs is symbiotic. We know from the history of our associations, “giving back to the profession” remains a high priority with most retirees. This may come in many forms and settings:

  • Leadership or membership in local, state, or national MEA/NAfME office, staff, advisor, or council/committee position
  • Advocates for the promotion of music education to local and state government officials
  • Service as presiding chair or member of the conference or workshop planning committee
  • Service as evaluator of performance groups, conference sessions, or articles for publication
  • Judges of local/state MEA adjudication or commercial festival
  • Accompanists, coaches, arrangers, or guest conductors for festivals or school/community groups
  • Services to the local music teacher in private teaching, piano playing, marching band charting, sectional coaching, choreography, music technology, instrumental repair, stage tech, etc.
  • Writers for state MEA and NAfME publications and blog sites
  • Contributors to online music education forums or the NAfME Connections
  • Donors to and/or fund-raisers of music education charitable projects, scholarship initiatives, etc.

The PMEA Model of Retired Member Participation

PMEA values the vast wealth of experience and contributions of our retired members. We’re proud of the many programs we offer to retirees and invite you to visit our website to peruse additional information and sample digital newsletters and articles.

Retired members in Pennsylvania are involved in:

  • PMEA elected and appointed offices, staff, committee chairs, and membership on councils
  • PMEA Strategic Plan and Bylaws, Conference Planning, and other state/regional committees
  • Retired Resource Registry* (informal mentoring for new teachers and transfers)
  • How-to-Retire Webinar, Prepping for Retirement, and the Ultimate Retiree Resource Guide
  • Retired Member Breakfast at PMEA Annual Conference
  • Retirement 101 (The Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How) session at PMEA Annual Conference (training for all members retiring or soon-to-retire)
  • Maintenance of PA Community Band, Chorus, Orchestra, and Theater group catalogs
  • Maintenance of PMEA member compositions library
  • Mock Job Interview Committee for music education majors
  • Coffee & Conversations informal “ask an expert” lounge at PMEA Annual Conference
  • Volunteering as presiding chairs for sessions and registration aides at conferences/workshops
  • Pool of conference clinicians, guest lecturers, and members on discussion panels
  • Participation in “Sponsor a Collegiate to Attend the Conference” campaigns
  • All-State Program Patron, or contributor to the annual Irene Christman Scholarship or Margaret Bauer Grant programs.

As of October 1, 2025, there are 61 advisors in the PMEA Retired Resource Registry.

*During their annual membership registration, PMEA Retired Members may choose to sign-up for the R3 Retired Member Registry (above volunteer categories) to become available to informally offer advice to college music education majors, new hires, transfers, and newcomers to any music specialty. R3 members may handle inquiries like “What warm-up would you recommend for my middle school choir?” OR “Do you have an idea for an elementary string ensemble concert opener?” OR “How do you teach improvisation… steady beat… breath support?”

The other option with more time commitment is that Retired Members can be officially “trained” as a PMEA Mentor and be assigned to specific individuals who request assistance in their early career assignments.

Coda

How can we help?

What is the future of retired music educator professional engagement? In a word: connections!

Last month, I reached out to Elizabeth Welsh Lasko, NAfME Assistant Executive Director for Membership, Organizational Development, and Marketing Communications and “volunteered” OUR assistance. I suggested that, in keeping with the NAfME 2022 Vision Statement – “…an association where all people are heard, seen, and feel they belong throughout their lifelong experiences in music” – we should all intentionally recruit more hands-on involvement of our retirees. I pointed out that in the late 1980s, we had a Music Educators National Conference (MENC) Committee for Retired Members led by a National Chairman who served on the NAfME National Assembly. (An excellent booklet, TIPS: Retirement for Music Educators, Copyright © 1989 MENC, was compiled by A. Verne Wilson, then the Past National Chairman of the MENC Committee for Retired Music Educators.)

Ms. Lasko encouraged me to “reach out to retirees” beginning with this article. At the next NAfME Eastern Division Conference, I plan to hold a meeting of retired members, and also connect with all state MEA retired member coordinators (those states who have them). We’re available and on the move! Let’s collaborate and share our resources!

Finally, just for fun, I recently posted the blog “For Book Lovers – Retired or Not” on NAfME Connections (formerly called Amplify). There are already 1,810 members in the NAfME “Retired Members Community.” Please JOIN US! Using this forum, get in touch with me, and respond with YOUR OWN retirement stories, strategies, perspectives on this “life passage,” and more ideas to grow the professional engagement of our music teacher retirees.

Happy trails!

© 2025 Paul K. Fox

Bigger Dreams, Bigger Home

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How Retirees Can Upsize for Homesteading and Hosting

Featured image via Pexels

[Editor’s Note: My favorite and most prolific “guest blogger” Ed Carter has returned with a piece on upsizing NOT downsizing in retirement. Please enjoy (below) “Bigger Dreams, Bigger Home.” Thanks, Ed!

In addition, for attendees to my “Retirement 101 – It’s Not All About the Money” session at the Upper St. Clair Township Library on July 10, 2025 (and any other interested retired or soon-to-retire individuals), please click on the following links to printer-friendly copies of my slide handouts and the updated “Ultimate Retiree Resource Guide.”]

Article by Ed Carter

Retirement doesn’t always mean downsizing. For many retirees, it’s the perfect time to invest in a larger home—one with room to explore new hobbies, welcome visiting family, and enjoy the lifestyle they’ve spent years working toward. If you’re dreaming about homesteading or want to transform your home into a hub of activity and connection, buying a bigger property may be more practical than it sounds. With the right planning, you can find a home that fits your vision and your budget.

Know What You Really Want

Before you start searching, take the time to clarify what matters most to you in this “next chapter.” Are you dreaming of cultivating your own garden, raising chickens, or simply having more space to host grandkids and holiday gatherings? Think about square footage, land size, and features that support your lifestyle, like a home office, workshop, or playroom. Visualizing your daily routines in your new home can help you prioritize what’s essential versus what’s just nice to have.

Focus on Land and Layout

Homesteading takes space—and not just any kind of space. You’ll want to look for properties with usable land that’s suitable for gardening, small livestock, or even fruit trees. Check for sun exposure, drainage, fencing, and access to water. A good layout indoors is just as important; think open kitchens for canning or entertaining, extra rooms for hobbies or guests, and easy access from the house to outdoor areas. A few extra acres can go a long way when your goal is to live more sustainably and independently.

Transform Your Homesteading Hobby Into Income

Many retirees find that homesteading isn’t just fulfilling—it’s also a gateway to a small business. Whether you’re selling fresh eggs, handmade soaps, canned goods, or seasonal vegetables, turning your passion into profit can be deeply rewarding. Going back to school for a business degree can sharpen your skills in marketing, operations, and financial planning—key tools for running your homestead as a business. Online degrees make it easier to balance learning with daily responsibilities, and there are many inspiring online business degree success stories that prove it’s never too late to invest in yourself.

Set a Budget That Reflects Your Goals

Buying a bigger home doesn’t mean blowing through your retirement savings. Start with a clear picture of what you can comfortably spend, keeping in mind property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and any future upgrades. Talk to a financial advisor about how to structure your budget based on your income sources, and consider using proceeds from the sale of a current home if you’re upsizing. You may even find that relocating to a rural or semi-rural area gives you more for your money than staying in a high-cost urban zone.

Explore All the Financing Options

Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you’re out of options when it comes to financing. Many retirees use a mix of cash, retirement funds, or home equity to buy a new property. Others explore mortgage options like a reverse mortgage (with careful consideration) or traditional loans with manageable terms. It’s essential to speak with a lender who understands your unique income structure post-retirement. The right financing plan ensures you get the home you want without financial stress down the line.

Use a Realtor Who Understands Your Vision

A real estate agent who knows the homesteading lifestyle can help you find properties that truly fit. They’ll understand the value of extra land, zoning laws for small-scale farming, and the features that can make your homestead thrive. Share your vision early in the process—whether it’s selling homegrown produce, raising bees, or hosting family reunions—so they can narrow your options to homes that support both functionality and comfort.

Turn Space Into Opportunity

Once you find your home, think about all the ways to make the most of it. Spare bedrooms can become artist studios or guest rooms for visiting grandchildren. Garages can be converted into workshops or woodworking spaces. Basements can turn into cozy family rooms or even a small business headquarters. Outdoor space can serve multiple purposes: vegetable gardens, orchards, outdoor kitchens, or shaded play areas. With a little imagination, your home becomes a full-time lifestyle—one that supports both your hobbies and your relationships.

Buying a bigger home as a retiree isn’t about having more—it’s about doing more. It’s about designing a life that reflects your passions, supports your independence, and brings your family closer. Whether you want to dig into the soil, start a new business, or simply have space to live fully and comfortably, this move can be the start of something deeply fulfilling. With the right property, the right plan, and the right support, your next chapter can be your most exciting yet.

Peruse more insightful articles and resources here at paulfox.blog, where every post is a step towards a more fulfilling and informed life journey!

PKF

© 2025 Paul K. Fox and Ed Carter

70 and Out?

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Editor’s Note: Sorry! I don’t usually use this forum to rant or rave and complain… but, since I am almost flat on my back right now, I need to vent. Hopefully, other “seniors” who read this blog will find some benefits to this article and the research links below.

Keep up the “good fight” to maintain your own health and wellness! PKF

Mobility!

It’s the single most important thing in retirement! “If you ain’t got it, you’ve got nothing.”

There’s nothing worse than losing one’s ability to get around.

When I retired, I couldn’t imagine any limitation to my physical activities (with the exception of doing those ambitious squat thrusts of my youth or running a full gallop with my Yorkiepoo). Sure, as we age, many of us may experience more minor aches and pains caused by the effects slowly progressing arthritis, a touch of foot neuropathy or plantar fasciitis, overuse of our muscles in strenuous activity, lifting, or carrying heavy objects, or other issues, but these “challenges” don’t usually slow us down too much. And yes, I explored a few of those media-hyped over-the-counter topical remedies “everyone” claims will alleviate foot and muscular pain. How many of these do you recognize? Alphabetically I dabbled in Advil Targeted Relief, Aspercreme with Lidocaine, Blue Emu, IcyHot, Nervive, Penetrex, Salonpas, and Voltaren. I even bought several pairs of expensive shoes with custom insoles and orthotics. The foot pain has since mysteriously “gone away” (probably due to some excellent PT and regular bouts of stretching/flexing), which has led me to focus more on a new, annoying development – slight knee pain – for which the docs say may be early onset “bone-on-bone” (Knee Osteoarthritis).

Be proactive, Mr. Fox, I said!

Get off your duff, stretch, and move around more. (At regular intervals, my loving wife and the Apple Watch on my arm continually nag me to stand, move, and exercise!) So I can brag I made a concerted effort to lose weight (down 30 pounds and no longer need blood pressure medicine) and even put myself on a regime of online “old man yoga/chair” exercises (an app costing $38/month – but, after some progress in “core tightening” over several months, I abandoned them!). I’ve sought the services of a good physical therapist to help me through what will eventually be knee replacement surgery (but, if I do their daily prescriptions to build my leg muscles, perhaps the cutting won’t be needed for another decade or two! By the way, musicians/music teachers make good patients of PT because we know the importance of practicing regularly – even on the day of the lesson!) I have a good orthopedic surgeon in my back pocket, and during my last visit with him, I was able to say “no” to cortisone injections. Things seemed to be getting better!

But, all of this came to a crashing halt.

Several weeks ago, I struggled to raise a very heavy conductor’s stand (to which I will eventually chew-out the manufacturer of a poorly designed/awkward-positioned height adjustment screw). After my first dose of extra-strength Advil wore off, I felt like I had pulled a muscle in my back. It went away in a day or two, so I didn’t think much of it. But, five days later, when I woke up and climbed out of bed, suddenly any pressure I placed on my right leg gave me excruciating pain. I have been told this is probably sciatica or a “pinched nerve.” The pain is so bad that when I first get up or stand for even a few minutes on my right foot, I double-over and cannot move. I use any object around me to support myself such as countertops, tables, desks, shelving, etc., and feeling helpless literally “hobble around” trying to get from place to place. Even rolling over in bed the wrong way can cause an extreme surge of this pain which radiates down the entire leg. It has slowed down my activity to a crawl.

The timing could not have been more perfect!

Last week, I attended our state music teachers’ conference. After the five-and-a-half hour trip to the other end of the state (which everyone says with sciatica, you are never supposed to sit that long!), I planted myself in an electric wheelchair to get from place to place, fulfilling my normal PMEA duties such as taking candid photographs of the events and running a session or two. The (level 9) intense pain seems to come and go and I have gone to a doctor to receive a new script for physical therapy including an analysis to pinpoint the exact location of this unhappy nerve and what exercises may help. X-rays so far have shown only a little arthritis of the spine; apparently no herniated disks. (Is this what we all have to look forward to – “a little arthritis” – as we mature?) If it does not get better soon, I may consider going to a chiropractor. Have you had your first introduction to a cane? At the conference, I went to the local Rite Aid and bought one (along with a “TENS-machine,” although I have not unwrapped it yet and will need help setting up the “Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation” device). Thank God for the Internet, because I even needed to search for instructions on which hand to use the cane and how to adjust its length (my physical therapist checked it). It does provide some stability so that I can walk around without knocking books off shelves or outside, but it’s not a long-term solution.

I wish I could tell you I have some good news to report, but… as of today, we have not figured out the cause or location of the problem. I am on prednisone and it is only slightly alleviating the pain. Sitting in my office chair (right now) gives me a dull pain (number 2-3). Weight bearing can raise that number up to 8-9. My wife (who is a saint) has been waiting on me hand-and-foot (and she has a few of her own aches and pains!). My doggies are unhappy because they are receiving fewer long walks and they were kicked out of the bed so I can stretch (and so my restlessness would not keep them up all night). I have had to postpone my hospital volunteer work (I can’t push wheelchairs) and curtail a lot of other scheduled activities. With several concerts coming up for our local community orchestra, I am considering conducting in a chair from the podium… and I may have to miss marching in the annual Community Day Parade on May 17 when I usually serve as the “duck maestro” for the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair’s GREAT DUCK RACE fundraiser.

I’m turning 70 next week!

Several weeks ago, I would have told you I am CELEBRATING the big 7-0! I revel in the freedom of retirement, the joy of “refiring” or “rewiring” myself to explore new projects, refocusing energy on favorite past hobbies and “mindful” pursuits, catching up with former students and colleagues, helping others as a music educator mentor, presenting workshops on teacher self-care, ethics training, interviewing, and retirement transitioning (take a look at my latest professional brochure here), subscribing to the retiree doctrine “it’s not my sandbox anymore” avoiding the jobs/tasks I no longer want to do, and literally… “living the dream.”

Now, I must face these new challenges head-on, and I will! I will not allow myself to “retire” (that old definition to “withdraw” or “resign”). I will fight any acquiescent acceptance of increasing disability, disengagement, depression, unnecessary significant medical intervention, or long-term advanced pain management! Yes, this is a SELF TALK: They say most recovery from sciatica is very slow! If you share this condition, don’t get discouraged!

Mobility.

I want it back! I want to return to modeling what author Ernie Zelinski says in his book How to Retire Happy, Wild and Free are the essential ingredients for a meaningful and satisfying retirement and life passage to self-reinvention, renewing the quest of finding “purpose, structure, and community” throughout our golden years.

Sample Additional Research on Sciatica

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1895638/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/taming-pain-sciatica-people-time-heals-less-2017071212048

5 Easy Stretches for Sciatic Pain (with pictures)

PKF

© 2025 Paul K. Fox

Returning to the Classroom in Retirement

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Smart Planning for a Fulfilling Experience

Blog photo credit: pexels-cottonbro-6158658

In a past retirement articles (e.g. this one) and conference or workshop presentations for soon-to-retire music educators, I echoed the views of my esteemed music education colleague Dr. John D’Ascenzo on the importance of post-employment learning. (He earned his PhD after his retirement from teaching!) John shared three primary concepts with references: “Swim like a shark” (encouraging retirees to continue long-term pursuits that involve personal and professional growth; the analogy: sharks never stop swimming – even in their sleep!); “Lose the fear of failure and need for approval” (promoting strategies to build confidence and self-efficacy); “Network, Network, Network.” (developing more social and professional interactions, activities not necessarily centered on music or education, but those that broaden horizons by producing personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose and maintaining overall health). See page 5 in the PMEA Retired Member Network eNEWS, August 2018

Ed Carter, our guest blogger for March 2025, brings us new perspectives on a return to education and self-reinvention once retirees choose to “pull their pin” and leave their initial profession. Previous articles by Ed Carter at this site include Monetizing Our Skills and Passions – Creative Ways for Musicians to Make Money Beyond Gigs, Unleashing Your Sound – A Musicians Guide to Making Waves and Gaining Fans, Music and Literacy Skills – How to Use One to Improve the Other, and Do You Have a Side-Gig? Four Tips for Artists Seeking An Extra Income Stream. Thank you, Ed! (PKF)

Article by Ed Carter

Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter, and for many, that includes the pursuit of education. Whether it’s earning a degree, gaining new skills, or exploring personal interests, going back to school later in life offers intellectual stimulation, social engagement, and personal fulfillment. However, it’s important to approach this decision with careful planning – considering financial factors, time commitments, and the right learning environment. With the right strategy, furthering education in retirement can be both rewarding and transformative.

Improving Campus Accessibility for Retirees

When considering a return to school during retirement, evaluating campus accessibility is vital. With a significant portion of retirees no longer driving, understanding available transportation options becomes crucial. Many campuses offer amenities like elevators and ramps, but these may not be comprehensive, posing challenges for those with mobility issues. By thoroughly researching and planning for these logistical aspects, you can significantly enhance your educational experience and ensure a smoother transition back to academia.

Upgrading Your Retirement with Online Education

Pursuing an online degree during retirement offers a flexible and convenient way to enrich your skills and knowledge. This approach allows you to balance studies with other commitments, making it an ideal choice for lifelong learning. Also, if you’re looking to enhance your leadership and project management abilities, the importance of bachelor of business management studies cannot be overstated. Plus the networking opportunities provided by such programs can lead to valuable connections and potential job prospects, as many positions are filled through personal referrals.

Rediscovering the Joy of Learning

When considering a return to school during retirement, it’s essential to focus on the joy of learning rather than career advancement. Embracing lifelong learning can significantly enhance your personal growth and satisfaction, offering a chance to stay mentally active and engaged. By adopting this mindset, you enrich your life and maintain relevance in a rapidly changing world, even if re-entering the workforce is not your primary goal.

Budgeting for Education in Retirement

When planning to return to school during retirement, it’s essential to anticipate and budget for potential educational expenses. These costs can include commuting, whether through maintaining a personal vehicle or using public transportation. While these expenses might not be as high as when you were working, they remain significant. Additionally, technology expenses, such as purchasing a new laptop or software, can quickly add up. Supplies like textbooks and other materials are another area where costs can unexpectedly rise, impacting your overall retirement budget.

Choosing Between In-Person and Online Learning

When planning to return to education during retirement, weighing the benefits of in-person versus online learning is essential. Attending classes on campus can be challenging due to daily travel, which might be inconvenient if you live far from the institution. This could lead to increased costs and time spent on transportation, potentially affecting your overall learning experience. On the other hand, online classes offer the convenience of studying from home, eliminating the need for a commute and providing access to course materials at any time. This flexibility not only saves time and money but also allows you to manage other commitments more effectively. However, it’s important to consider potential feelings of isolation that can come with online learning.

Protecting Your Data in Educational Platforms

As you plan to return to school during retirement, it’s essential to understand the importance of safeguarding your personal data on educational platforms. The digital education sector is a significant repository of personal information, making it a target for cybercriminals. The education industry has been experiencing high rates of cyber threats, including phishing scams and ransomware attacks. To protect your data, it’s crucial to implement strong cybersecurity practices, such as being cautious of suspicious emails and ensuring your devices are secure against malware.

Volunteering: A Path to Enriching Retirement

Engaging in campus volunteering during retirement offers a fulfilling way to connect with diverse individuals and make a positive societal impact. By participating in community projects, you can build relationships with students, faculty, and local residents, fostering a sense of shared purpose. These initiatives often tackle important issues like environmental sustainability and educational support, allowing you to contribute to meaningful causes. Volunteering not only enhances personal growth by developing valuable skills but also strengthens community bonds.

Returning to school in retirement is more than just an academic pursuit – it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and embrace lifelong learning. Choosing the right program, managing costs, and setting realistic goals can help ensure a meaningful and enjoyable experience. Whether for career advancement, personal enrichment, or the joy of learning, education at any age is a powerful investment in yourself and your future.

© 2025 Paul K. Fox and Ed Carter

February Updates…

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PROfessional Development!

Education, ethics, professionalism, and lifelong learning.

Hope you are enjoying the winter season and, for many of you, the anticipation of warmer weather returning soon! Sorry, skiers! I am sick of shoveling snow!!

Here’s a quick “catch-up” on things going on in educator professional development.

For PA School Administrators & Educators

There is still time to register for the upcoming 25-hour, PDE-approved, Act 45 course, “PA Educators: Your Ethical Codes & School Law,” which will cover the recently mandated PA Title 22 Chapter 49 (Certification) Professional Ethics Competencies. The next online series of Act 45 classes will be held Tuesday afternoons in March, and provide “the keys to the car” planning for your own school district’s future continuing education and induction programs in ethics training as required by the PDE.

Now sponsoring our eighth series of classes, I am designated a “qualified instructor” in partnership with the course’s creator/facilitator, retired social studies teacher and attorney Thomas W. Bailey. For more information, please click on these links to his website:

In addition, since over the past year PDE revised their website (and changed most of the content links), I compiled a super-index of “places-to-go” and “things-to-read,” sites of supplemental resources on school ethics here. I recommend visiting this blog if you are interested in our library of links to the Pennsylvania Code of Professional Practice and Conduct, the Model Code of Ethics for Educators, the PA Educators Discipline Act, and research and citations from the PDE, PA Professional Standards and Practices Commission, Connecticut State Department of Education, and Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, among many others.

If you would like to see the kind of things we cover in these classes, take a look at the slide summaries I posted from my presentation at the PDE SAS Institute “Purposeful Leadership” state conference last December:

From Pre-Service to Veteran Music Teachers!

It’s that time of the year… again! The PMEA Annual Conference on April 9-12, 2025 will be held in the family-friendly, perfect-for-a-mini-vacation spot in northeastern PA: the Kalahari Resort in the Poconos.

There is still time to register! (Click here.) If you would like to see a summary of the sessions and performances, go to the PMEA website here or download this PDF brochure.

Why attend the conference? In my five-plus decades in education, I may have missed only two or three of the annual PMEA state events, and heartily recommend you remain actively involved in your professional association. This is what I wrote about it in a recent PMEA Retired Member Network eNEWS:

For some of us, it’s a just chance to catch-up with our colleagues, see our friends, and socialize. Others are more focused and take advantage of the near-perfect opportunity to network with other professionals, perhaps seeking new working relationships, partnerships, or even employment. Many are on a look-out for newly published music, that perfect music lesson or teaching strategy, technology tools, fundraisers, advance educational venues, or much-needed equipment to purchase for our ensembles or classrooms. Most come to hear/see the “state of the art” in music education – concerts, demonstrations, keynote speeches, panel discussions, exhibits, research presentations, and workshops. PMEA’s PD Council would likely submit that the primary purpose of a conference is for professional self-improvement… What did Stephen Covey call it? His Habit #7 of “sharpening the saw” – to build a balanced program of self-renewal in the four areas of your life: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual. Covey would insist we embrace “the process that empowers us to move on an upward spiral of growth and change, of continuous improvement.” So, in short, conferences help us “grow” – to revive, re-inspire, re-energize, rejuvenate, re-direct, and re-motivate all of us – pre-service, active in-service, and retired teachers towards making successful new connections, updating our knowledge and skills, and forming new goals. This is how we “keep up” with all the new standards, benchmarks, and cutting-edge advances, and meet the “movers-and-shakers,” visionaries, and leaders in the profession!

There’s a lot in store for college music education majors. Besides the aforementioned state meetings, concerts, clinics, and keynote addresses no one should miss, the music industry exhibits (new innovations in sheet music, instruments, technology, summer school and graduate programs, etc.), and the chance to introduce yourself to other music colleagues (aren’t some of you looking for a job soon?), there will be a “coffee and connections” informal lounge to ASK-AN-EXPERT on Thursday afternoon to pick-the-brains of PMEA mentors and retirees on any subject. Do you have a question about conducting technique, musical literature, lesson plan idea, classroom or time management tip, or teaching method? And, just take look these sessions the PMEA Professional Development Council has targeted specifically for YOU:

For Retirees… They are special, too!

PMEA Retired Members, consider this your personal invitation to join us at the Kalahari Resort in the Poconos for the chance to catch-up, connect, collaborate and communicate with other colleagues throughout the Commonwealth! (a plethora of “C’s!”)

As usual, we will “break bread” together Friday morning (April 11, 2025) with the annual retiree breakfast. Be sure to register soon for the PMEA Annual Conference (now only $25) and check the “yes” box that you will attend our meeting. Those in attendance will be treated to some “conference swag!”

Retirees are a valuable resource to PMEA! Our experienced retired members are among the best-trained (unofficial) mentors in PMEA. Facing many years of “boots on the ground,” we have at our fingertips numerous strategies to solve problems in education. Frankly, in my opinion, we have a lot to offer “the future of the profession!”

If you are a retired PA music educator, hopefully you have maintained your PMEA membership (dues significantly discounted), and have signed up for the Retired Member Resource Registry to help future “rookie” music educators. (To reach the R3, first login to your PMEA portal here.)

On Friday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m., we are offering a special sharing session for soon-to-retire teachers… the annual one-hour Retirement 101 workshop joined by a panel of experienced retirees: Rick Coulter, Jeffrey Dent, Sister Kathleen Doutt, Dan Klingbeil, Chuck Neidhardt, and Louise & Richard Victor. Active educators who plan to retire over the 1-5 years can learn valuable techniques from us for a smooth transition to post-full-time employment and successfully reinvent, reprogram, and “recharge” themselves to modifying those essential elements of purpose, structure, and community throughout their “golden years!”

My Professional Advertisement

You may have noticed in my last blog-post an outline of past article topics archived at this site, and a complaint that I feel I must repeat myself (or repackage the material) to meet the changing personalized “bookends” – life cycles – specific passages of my readers. The earlier February post was mostly for job seekers. If you were not looking for employment or coming fresh out of college, it may have seemed irrelevant. The same goes for specialty articles on self-care, ethics training, or retirement transitioning… WHEN WOULD YOU BE MOTIVATED TO STUDY THESE?

I have decided to maintain a comprehensive index of my writings (see “Inside” link in the top menu bar). Please visit the sections of this blog-site that matter to you most… and, when things change, come back and look again. You may find something that “hits the spot” or satisfies the needs of your new journey in education or personal/professional life.

I remain willing and able (aka “very interested”) in doing in-person or online sessions for college methods classes, PCMEA chapter meetings, PMEA festival directors’ meetings, PMEA District or Regional PD workshops, or school district/department inservices. Just give me a call. My contact information can be found in the top “About” link. Please visit this section for catalogs of my presentations and articles. FYI, I created this trifold of some of my past work.

Best wishes on your future successes in career development and professional goal setting.

PKF

© 2025 Paul K. Fox

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5 Things You Need for a Comfortable Retirement

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Editor’s Note: We are happy to post this retirement article by guest author Sierra Powell… concise and solid advice for all current and prospective retirees. Photo credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-on-seashore-1377070/

Retirement is a new chapter– An opportunity to savor the results of years of diligence, to follow your interests, and to unwind, free from the demands of 9-to-5 employment. Reaching a comfortable retirement calls for careful decisions supporting your lifestyle and future requirements. Whether you desire to see the world, spend time with loved ones, or just enjoy a slower paced life, several essential components will enable you to have all you need for a safe, happy retirement.

Creating a Comprehensive Financial Plan

A good financial plan is the foundation of a comfortable retirement since it provides a clear road map for handling your money in the next few years. This approach covers forecasting your spending, figuring out revenue sources, and developing a plan for withdrawing money without quickly running out of savings. It goes beyond simple saving. First, project your monthly costs using the lifestyle you want. Add needs such as food, healthcare, and shelter; also include discretionary expenditures for entertainment, vacation, and hobbies. Knowing your planned costs helps you to decide if your revenue sources are adequate to meet them. You can also opt for a good local financial advisor. For example, if you live in Florida, seek a financial advisor in Tampa if you need guidance in selecting the best plan for yourself and your family.

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Enjoying a nice retirement depends on keeping excellent health. It becomes difficult to enjoy your newly acquired independence without bodily well-being fully. Emphasize keeping active, following a healthy diet, and planning frequent doctor visits. Time spent in wellness not only improves your mood but also lowers your chance of chronic diseases that could affect your finances or quality of life. Think about adding pursuits that keep your body and mind active. Without taxing your joints too much, low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, or walking provide excellent advantages. Just as crucial is mental stimulation; consider picking up a pastime that tests your brain, acquiring a new skill, or club membership.

Building a Strong Social Network

A strong social life improves your retirement experience by offering company, encouragement, and chances to remain active. Retirement typically alters your daily schedule, particularly if most of your prior social life came from employment. By means of actions to establish and preserve a solid network of friends, family, and community ties, you may prevent emotions of isolation and loneliness, therefore influencing both mental and physical health. To meet new people and be active, join clubs, volunteer groups, or neighborhood organizations that fit your interests. To keep your social calendar full, get in touch with old pals, throw events, or schedule visits with loved ones.

Ensuring Housing Stability

Your degree of retirement comfort depends mostly on your choice of living environment. Your house should fit your way of life, be reasonably priced, and call for little upkeep. Downsizing to a smaller house, condo, or senior living complex provides the ideal balance for some between cost and convenience. Smaller spaces cut maintenance, decrease utilities and liberate resources for additional uses. Think about things like family, closeness to hospitals, and services supporting your everyday requirements. If you would like to keep your present house, think about implementing changes that would help keep aging in place. Simple adjustments that improve mobility and safety include adding grab bars in the restroom or substituting ramps for stairs.

Creating a Flexible Budget

Unexpected expenses might develop in retirement even with the finest financial preparation. Creating a flexible budget lets you negotiate these shocks without sacrificing your general financial situation. Set aside some of your savings, especially for unexpected vacation demands, house repairs, or medical bills. An emergency fund serves as a financial cushion so you may handle pressing needs without compromising your monthly income flow. Your budget should also contain a provision for discretionary expenditure for unplanned events such as family visits, holidays, or new interests. This adaptability lets you enjoy the advantages of retirement without feeling limited by your means.

Conclusion

Making decisions according to your beliefs and future vision can help you to create a comfortable retirement. Every component of your retirement plan supports your way of life and well-being, thereby enabling you to savor this new chapter with peace of mind. Accept the chance to live life on your terms, knowing that your careful planning has set a firm foundation for your next years.

Our Next Chapter

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Bookends – Stage 5: “Living the Dream”

Welcome back to my blog site for music educators… actually hopefully thought-provoking reflections for teachers in any subject area or grade level, school administrators, classified school staff (secretaries, aides, custodians, etc.), and professionals in all fields.

It has taken me more than a year to revisit (and expand on) all of the sections from my workshop (October 2023) presented to Seton Hill University music education students, and now we close with “The Final Chapter” – a focus on self-reinvention and transitioning to retirement in anticipation of successfully Crossing the Rubicon to enjoy our “senior years.” This entire presentation was inspired by the mission statement of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Council for Teacher Training, Recruitment, and Retention – “The Life Cycle of a Music Educator” – for which I had the privilege of serving eight years as the State Chair (still a council member). To recap, here is an outline of my previous blogs on the evolution of an educator, a journey through career “passages” to follow:

Stage 5: Next Chapter/Living the Dream Years –
Retirement Prep & Mastery

To start with, the term “retirement” is a misnomer. Typically, in most dictionaries (online and printed), it is defined as “the withdrawal from one’s career, occupation, or office usually because of age,” or even the synonyms “seclusion from the world,” “privacy,” “the act of going away,” “retreating,” or “disappearing.” No, perhaps more appropriate definitions would support the advances in medical science, a better standard-of-living, our healthier lifestyles and improvements in self-care, and longer lifespans. Retiring from your first career may only be the halfway point! Sample online quotes:

“The ‘new retirement’ is not an ending, it’s a new beginning, the start of a new life journey of vastly expanded proportion.” Dr. Richard Johnson, Flourishing in Retirement

“Retirement now is mostly about change. And it may not look all that different from what immediately precedes it.” Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/its-time-to-retire-our-definition-of-retirement_b_5774878.html

Retirement is “reinventing yourself for the life you’ve always wanted.” Steven Price, How to Survive Retirement, Skyhorse Publishing, 2015

In my experience hosting the annual PMEA conference session “Retirement 101 – the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How” and sharing retiree stories and strategies, I have come to the conclusion that there are many other misconceptions about taking this big step:

  • You retire FROM something. (Nope! You need to retire TO your next phase of life, new goals, pursuits, etc., and not run away from your past. We have often paraphrased the theme of author Ernie Zelinski writings in past paulfox.blogs: Retirees must search for and define the things that your job had provided in the past: 1) Purpose/new life mission, 2) Structure/schedule, and 3) Community/interaction with people.)
  • It’s an easy transition. (For many, it can feel like the most tumultuous transition ever experienced with “change,” sometimes overwhelming swings in emotions, and personal challenges!)
  • It takes little time to prepare. You just fall into it! (No, the research recommends “intentional and comprehensive” advance preparation, starting at least 3-5 years before you “pull your plug.”)
  • The decision is based almost entirely “on the money.” (True, a soon-to-be-retiree should draft a post-employment household budget, analyze net worth and pension/social security benefits, pay off as many loans as possible, and make appointments with an estate planner, elder attorney, and/or financial advisor. However, we retire for a host of very personal reasons – travel, relocation, encore or new careers, caring for family members, etc., and the likely greater challenge is a renewed exploration of self-reinvention, defining new pathways, renewing relationships, and mapping out your rest-of-life strategies and goals. In other words, what are you going to be when you grow up?)
  • It’s completely different from anything you’re doing right now. (Music educators have a variety of skill sets that they will likely retain in future part/full-time employment or volunteer work. They can advance their personal artistry in the singing or playing an instrument, accept solo “gigs” or perform in community or professional ensembles. They can teach privately, direct church or community bands, orchestras, choirs or jazz groups, coach sectionals, compose music or design halftime shows, judge school groups, present workshops, choreograph/direct musicals, serve in college music education programs, etc. The list goes on and on… and is only limited by the retiree’s imagination and interest.)

In almost every book on retirement, there are discussions about the “stages of retirement” (defined by gerontologists – experts on aging) that graphically show the importance of advance planning. (See below.) The first three stages certainly provide opportunities to rethink, recharge, reinvent, retool, and redefine one’s life purpose and meaning, become productive, and begin that new chapter in their lives.

Retirement can be a little bumpy. It’s not unusual to feel many “up’s and down’s” through the transition. A lot may have to do with whether you had really wanted to leave your job when you did or if you took the necessary steps in retirement preparation. Many have suggested to take a year or two “internship” to explore your options, rest a little and take a break from all of that stress, celebrate the free time (you seem to) instantly have, and then assess and “test” what might be your next (more permanent) steps.

Prepare for the emotional roller-coaster! Initially, you are very EXCITED about your upcoming retirement. You feel pure JOY about the anticipated FREEDOM, and everyone throws you a party or two. You take moments to sum up your career legacy and ACCOMPLISHMENTS. A blessed PEACE-OF-MIND envelopes you, no longer having to worry about that next concert, recruitment campaign, or lesson target. With the future in front of you, you feel OPTIMISM. And then, after the excitement dies down…

At times, you feel a little AMBIVALENT about all of this “change!” SADNESS could come saying good-bye to your colleagues and experiencing a loss in professional identity and sense of purpose. Perhaps you may experience ANXIETY (angst) about what the future will hold, and PESSIMISM on whether you will “get it together” in your new life.

But, finally… ACCEPTANCE and adjustment!

Both emotional cycles may happen at different times or nearly simultaneously. These are normal “speed bumps,” and the perfect reason why you should remain as active as you can with your relationships, especially with people who have already made the retirement journey.

Are you ready to retire over the next 3-5 years? Well, as the PMEA Retired Member Coordinator for ten years (with the help of numerous inspirational music teacher retirees in PMEA), I have spent a lot of time preparing what amounts to be a “mock instructional manual” and other resource materials for fellow PMEA members. These are all posted here on the PMEA website. (This one of the best reasons to maintain your PMEA professional association and pay your dues… We continue to advocate, advise, and assist all PA music educators… from preservice to “living the dream!”)

Free “nuts and bolts” are listed below for you to peruse as you prepare for this life-changing passage.

What’s next? How about attending the PMEA Annual Conference on April 9-13, 2025 at the Kalahari Resort/Poconos (“home of the world’s largest indoor water park!”) and enjoy some time away from it all? The Kalahari offers some family-fun recreation and PMEA will provide concerts, keynotes, exhibits, and sessions of stimulating professional development for the entire “life cycle of the music educator.”

PMEA members, I hope you plan to attend my Friday session at the conference…

Looking forward to seeing you there! At any time, if you need help or more ideas on retirement prep, I’m just a quick email away. (Click here.) Let me hear from you!

PKF

© 2024 Paul K. Fox

New Year’s Resolutions for Retirees

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Do you believe in formulating annual goals or drafting a couple “New Year’s Resolutions?”

THE STATS DON’T LIE

Every year around this time, the web highlights many so-called experts touting the benefits of making personal improvement plans… and is just as quick to admonish us for breaking them. The statistics are not encouraging:

Success/Failure rates over the first 6 months

  • Of those who make a New Year’s resolution, after 1 week, 75% are still successful in keeping it.
  • After two weeks, the number drops to 71%.
  • After 1 month, the number drops again to 64%.
  • And after 6 months, 46% of people who make a resolution are still successful in keeping it.
  • In comparison, of those people who have similar goals but do not set a resolution, only 4% are still successful after 6 months.

Overall success/failure rates

  • According to a 2016 study, of the 41% of Americans who make New Years resolutions, by the end of the year only 9% feel they are successful in keeping them.
  • An earlier study in 2007 showed that 12% of people who set resolutions are successful even though 52% of the participants were confident of success at the beginning.

Reasons for failure

  • In one 2014 study, 35% of participants who failed their New Year’s Resolutions said they had unrealistic goals.
  • 33% of participants who failed didn’t keep track of their progress.
  • 23% forgot about their resolutions.
  • About one in 10 people who failed said they made too many resolutions.

— https://discoverhappyhabits.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/

Of course, it does not have to be this way! Last year, yours truly made a promise to “practice what music teachers preach” and “make meaningful music” at least a little every day on his instrument. How did it go? Success! I made it to the middle of July without missing a day (until I sprained my left hand). But the goal led me to playing better than I have for decades, more self-confidence, a lot of fun polishing off movements from my favorite sonatas and concertos, and even the purchase of a new viola. Now? It is time for me to find a tuba, dive into my past “brass flame,” and join a community band! 

As we succeed in everything else for our lives, the process of setting aside time to analyze our personal pathways, assessing our needs, and making new goals is healthy. For the eternal pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment in retirement, I found these secrets to a ”winning” set of New Year’s Resolutions in the “Top-10 List” by the UAB School of Medicine:

  1. Start with specific micro-goals. (Keep them small, simple, and easy to accomplish.)
  2. Set resolutions for the right reasons. (Choose what is important to you, not someone else’s expectations.)
  3. Document your progress. (Write it down.)
  4. Practice patience and forgiveness. (No one is perfect. Just keep at it despite the curve balls thrown at you.)
  5. Schedule time to achieve goals. (Dedicate the necessary resolve and resources to accomplish them.)
  6. Embrace the buddy system. (Share in collaborating on group goals. You don’t have to achieve them alone!)
  7. Consider your budget. (Finances may play a role. Stay within your means.)
  8. Slow down and meditate. (Breathe, refocus, and be mindful.)
  9. Reward yourself for achievements. (No matter how big or small, treat yourself for reaching your targets.)
  10. Ask others to keep you accountable. (Publicize your intentions. They might help you achieve your goals.)

— https://www.uabmedicine.org/-/10-secrets-of-people-who-keep-their-new-year-s-resolutions

SAMPLE RESOLUTIONS

You probably do not need someone to suggest things-to-do in 2022 or ways to self-improve. Effective goals and action plans must come from within yourself. However, there are countless advisors “out there” offering ideas to motivate you:

  • Keep a Positive Mindset
  • Commit to at least 10 Minutes of Exercise Daily
  • Make Better Dietary Choices
  • Stay Young-at-Heart – Surround Yourself with Young People
  • Stimulate Your Mind
  • Get Enough Sleep
  • Reach Out to Old Friends and Make New Ones
  • Kick Your Bad Habits
  • Maintain Your Purpose in Life as You Age
  • Give Back – Explore New Volunteer Opportunities

— Example sites: https://www.luthermanor.org/new-years-resolutions-for-seniors/ and https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-top-10-healthy-new-years-resolutions-older-adults 

Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA)

ENGAGEMENT, ADVOCACY, & ASSOCIATION IN MUSIC EDUCATION

Modeling PROFESSIONALISM, these terms promote the power of “collaboration” and connections among music education colleagues and stakeholders (music students, parents, and the general public). To foster a broader picture and devise “bigger than self” New Year’s Resolutions, we should embrace forming partnerships throughout our pre-service, in-service, and retirement years with enhanced goals of active engagement, advocacy, and support of our professional associations.

In many past blog posts here and articles in PMEA News, Retired Member Network eNEWS, and NAfME Music in a Minuet, we have addressed ways that retirees can share their awesome “musical gifts,” know-how, and perspective to promote creative self-expression. If you are looking to adopt a 2022 New Year’s Resolution to “make a difference” in the music education profession, revisit this free archive here: https://www.pmea.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/PMEA-Retired-Member-Network-eNEWS-s090721.pdf and also peruse this link: https://paulfox.blog/2021/11/10/giving-back-to-the-association/.

On a personal note, besides getting back to my viola practice and resuming my love of playing the tuba, I resolve to continue a focus on “giving back” whenever possible to my local community, PMEA, and the music education profession. How will I do this in 2022? By bestowing the gifts of SERVICE:

  • Chair of the PMEA Council for Teacher Training, Recruitment, and Retention
  • Coordinator of PMEA Retired Members
  • Artistic Director of the South Hills Junior Orchestra
  • Trustee and Communications Director of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair
  • Volunteer Escort for the St. Clair Health
  • Author, clinician, and workshop presenter on the topics of educator ethics, interviewing and job search, professional standards, retirement, and self-care

Additional blog posts on the topic of New Year’s Resolutions and helping others in retirement:

PKF

© 2021 Paul K. Fox

iStockphoto.com graphic: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year by Tasha Art

Pixabay.com graphics:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Fox Household!

Those Were the Good Ol’ Days

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The “E” in RETIREMENT is for Energy, Engagement, Excitement, and Endurance

This blog is all about how to stay young and vibrant – BECOMING A VOLUNTEER! Geared to those of us who have retired, this is very personal and unique to every individual, no matter what the age!

Do you remember the song, “Those Were the Days” performed by Mary Hopkins (1968), the Fifth Dimension (1969), and even Dolly Parton (2000)?

Those were the days my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
For we were young and sure to have our way.
La la la la
Those were the days, oh yes those were the days

In June 2021, I went back to work. Well, not exactly full-time… but it felt that way!

Remember the times as music educators we spent 15-18 hours a day or more thinking, planning, creating, teaching, problem-solving, schlepping stuff, sweating, and working out beyond the regular school day and during summer months with major music projects like the marching band, spring musical, music adjudication trip, etc.?

Asked by my friend and current Upper St. Clair School District performing arts curriculum leader/HS band director Dr. John Seybert, I signed on to the newly-expanded extracurricular activity (ECA) position as administrative assistant and announcer of the marching band for the school from which I had retired. Filling in the gaps, taking attendance, handling mounds of paperwork, interacting with a whole new generation of music students, and learning a few new software applications along the way like FamilyID, Canvas, Remind, and the district’s Blackboard website, I threw my hat in the ring, not just to continue to serve as the voice of the “Pride of Upper St. Clair” at football games halftime shows (now in my 36th year), but to manage the full schedule of rehearsals, meetings, performances, and blessedly (?) exhausting 24/7 week-long band camp. I forgot how it felt to get up at 6 a.m. and return home around 9:30 p.m.

It has been exhilarating. It has been exhausting!

On another stage, when the local COVID stats fell two months ago, I was invited back to our local community hospital to serve as a volunteer – discharging patients from their rooms or escorting them from the outpatient surgery or endoscopy units. Yes, I was called upon to somehow restore the physical demands I (used-to) place on my personal stamina. Fully fatigued and expended after a shift of 4-7 hours of driving my wheelchair taxis (sometimes carrying over-sized people even though we’re only supposed to move those weighing 250 pounds or less), I find myself yearning for a retiree “power-nap,” only to regroup for the next day’s challenging schedule and another early-morning wake-up.

The best part of these 8-15 hours per week? Choosing one of the finest medical facilities in our metropolitan area – St. Clair Hospital (now “Health”) – I have the chance to meet former music students (grown up), their kids, parents and grandparents, friends, and other acquaintances at their greatest need. And, there’s almost no finer escort “call” than going to the family birth center and bringing to the car a new mommy and two-day-old baby… sharing that special moment with an alum or school staff member!

It has been exhilarating. It has been exhausting!

WHAT

In past articles on a satisfying retirement, I often quote the book How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free, the search for self-reinvention and new avenues for fulfilling those essential needs of “purpose, structure, and community” that employment had previously provided us. Author Ernie Zelinski’s definition of “purpose” are these goals:

  • To make a difference in people’s lives
  • To make a contribution
  • To find creative expression
  • To take part in discovery
  • To help preserve the environment
  • To accomplish or achieve a challenging task
  • To improve health and well-being

We learn from Revitalizing Retirement: Reshaping Your Identity, Relationships, and Purpose by Nancy Schlossberg that for retirees it is important to feel “needed” and that pursuits that foster “mattering” are crucial to a positive self-esteem, good mental health, and stable life balance.

It has been suggested that one problem of retirement is that one no longer matters; others no longer depend on us…

The reward of retirement, involving a surcease from labor, can be the punishment of not mattering. Existence loses its point and savor when one no longer makes a difference.”   

– Rosenberg and McCullough

The opposite of “mattering” is feeling “marginalized.” I would rather feel worn-out than useless/ignored/discarded!

In his book Design Your Dream Retirement, Dave Hughes recaps with his four essential ingredients of life balance:

  1. Physical activity
  2. Mental stimulation
  3. Social interaction
  4. Personal fulfillment

If you read my bio in the “about” tab above, I think all would agree: mission accomplished! I’ve made myself extremely busy. (Perhaps I “matter” a little too much?) “It’s a good thing I am retired… I would not have enough time to do all of these things if I still had a job!”

Yes, it FEELS good!

WHY

Now some rationale from the online pundits. First, review the article “Why Elderly People Should Volunteer.” According to the “experts,” volunteering is:

  • Socially beneficial
  • Good for mental cognition
  • Giving back to the community
  • Physically engaging
  • An opportunity to learn something new
  • Flexible
  • A strategy to fill up your day
  • The reason you get out of bed in the morning

Of course, one has to be careful and follow your doctor’s advice on what tasks will not overwhelm you! The CDC and other medical professionals urge adopting a “safe” routine of regular physical activity as a part of an older adult’s life. Check out websites like https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/activities-olderadults.htm and https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001482.htm. Besides keeping your mind active, increasing your physical activity as a volunteer while “living the dream” in retirement will:

  • Reduce the risk of serious illnesses (heart disease, type II diabetes, and depression
  • Help you manage a “healthy weight”
  • Improve your balance and coordination
  • Decrease the risk of falls or other injuries

Talk with your doctor to find out if your health condition limits, in any way, your ability to be active. Then, work with your doctor to come up with a physical activity plan that matches your abilities. If your condition stops you from meeting the minimum recommended activity levels, try to do as much as you can. What’s important is that you avoid being inactive.

– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Volunteering is all about being more eleemosynary (adjective defined as “generous, charitable, gratuitous, or philanthropic”). In my workshops on retirement transitioning, I frequently quote two gurus on the benefits of “giving back.”

With a frequently untapped wealth of competencies and experiences, older people have much to give. This fact, coupled with fewer requirements for their time, gives them unique opportunity to assume special kinds of helping roles.

– Mary Baird Carlsen – Meaning-Making: Therapeutic Processes in Adult Development

Our increased longevity and generally better health has opened our eyes to new and increased opportunities to contribute to the betterment of society through civic, social, and economic engagement in activities we believe in.

– Jo Ann Jenkins, CEO of AARP – Disrupt Aging

HOW

But you already knew all of this, right? There are so many ways to “bring it on” and “make a difference” in your “golden years.” (Wow – three cliches in a row!)

There are so many directions you can go to offer your free time to volunteer:

  • Escort at local hospital or nursing home
  • Walk dogs at animal shelter
  • Serve in charitable fund-raising projects
  • Assist food banks and meals-on-wheels agencies
  • Enlist as special advocate for abused or neglected children
  • Work as hospice volunteer
  • Maintain parks, trails, nature habitats, or recreation centers
  • Host an international student
  • Become a youth director, mentor, or scout leader
  • Teach summer school, night classes or Performing Arts workshops
  • Give guided tours or lectures as a docent at a local museum
  • Apply office management and clerical skills to benefit libraries and other nonprofit associations
  • Run a school club (share your hobby)

As trained music educators, we can share our precious skills in creative self-expression :

  • Accompany, coach, or guest conduct school/community groups, college ensembles, or music festivals.
  • Run for office or chair a committee or council of your state or local MEA association
  • Serve as presiding chair or member of the your state’s MEA planning committee or listening committees for the music in-service conferences
  • Participate as guest lecturer or panel discussion member at a conference, workshop, or college methods program
  • Judge adjudication festivals
  • Help plan or manage a local festival or workshop
  • Assist the local music teacher in private teaching, piano playing, marching band charting, sectional coaching, set-up of music technology, instrument repair, etc.
  • Write for your professional organizations’ publications (like PMEA or NAfME)

If you are a retired music teacher and member of PMEA, you could sign-up for the Retiree Resource Registry and serve as an informal consultant to others still “slugging it out” in the trenches. Go to the PMEA retired member focus area for more information.

More sources to peruse on this subject:

Anyway, back to a little “bragging!” At least “yours truly” is holding his own and hopefully contributing what he can to the success and welfare of others! Are you? In my retirement pastime, I refuse to sit idle, binge-watch movies on Netflix, or view hours of boring TV. To quote another song’s lyrics, this “senior citizen” will never lament…

Life is so unnerving
For a servant who’s not serving
He’s not whole without a soul to wait upon
Ah, those good old days when we were useful
Suddenly those good old days are gone
Ten days we’ve been rusting
Needing so much more than dusting
Needing exercise, a chance to use our skills
Most days we just lay around the castle
Flabby, fat, and lazy
You walked in and oops-a-daisy!

– “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast

So, what’s your story?

PKF

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© 2021 Paul K. Fox