The Shift in Pace While the paperwork was straightforward, the emotional and mental transition proved more complex. Tolbert had clocked nearly 37 years in CPS (18 as a principal) and was still serving as CPAA’s Vice President of Elementary School Principals. “I haven’t quite found my retirement footing as of yet,” she admitted. “My days are still very full… I’m trying to find balance. I retired because I was literally moving/working at least 15 of the 24 hours a day.” Today, she’s reclaiming her mornings and her time: “I’m getting sleep, waking at 8 a.m. most days… I drink my coffee, take a 30-minute walk around the neighborhood, and watch judge shows.” But the pull of service remains. “I usually take a couple calls a week from ‘my’ school… . Additionally, my role with CPAA and working with other principals keeps me informed of what’s happening in the system.” A Legacy That Lasts Looking back, Tolbert names the culture she helped build at Mason Elementary as her proudest achievement. “I established a legacy of professionalism, fairness, approachability, openness, and willingness to serve alongside faculty and staff, not above them,” she said. “We were a cohesive functioning group, and I was hesitant to trust what would happen in my absence.” That deep sense of connection made the transition bittersweet, but it also speaks to a career well- lived. “The legacy will live in the hallways,” she said. “It is my hope that many people will be able to make good decisions based on the legacy I left behind.” Final Thoughts for Those Considering Retirement For those unsure whether it’s time, Tolbert offers this: “Weigh your pros and cons. Don’t feel pressured by others retiring. I truly wasn’t ready when I was first eligible.” And perhaps most importantly, “Give yourself the freedom to choose how your time will be spent. I am still in work mode… but on my own terms.”
RETIREMENT TIPS FROM TONYA TOLBERT • Give yourself time: Retirement is a process, not a date. Be patient and don’t rush to fill your time right away. • Don’t compare your timeline: Just because you’re eligible, doesn’t mean you’re ready. Tune out the noise and check in with your own sense of timing. • Get your paperwork in order: The CTPF process is manageable if you follow the steps. Know your service years and benefit percentages in advance. • Plan for health coverage: If you retire before 65, strategize your medical insurance. Tolbert used her husband’s plan to save money. • Practice letting go: It’s hard to walk away from a community you built, but important to trust that others will carry it forward. • Stay connected—but set boundaries: You may still get calls from your former school (and that’s OK!), but be mindful not to slip into old work patterns.
• Protect your rest: Whether it’s sleeping in, walking your
neighborhood, or watching your favorite shows… make space to just be.
CPAA IS VOICE AND POWER REALIZED • • 39
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