CONTACT:
Donna Garcia, Community Relations Coordinator
West Texas State School
IH 20 and South Service Road
P.O. Box 415
Pyote, TX 79777
(432) 389-5555 ext. 221

Co-workers and friends of two West Texas State School employees celebrated their 36 years of combined dedication to the school during a luncheon in their honor. Lanell Markham and Dale Russey retired at the end of September, both ending distinguished careers serving the children and people of Texas.

During the retirement luncheon, Markham and Russey were presented with engraved clocks and plaques recognizing their contributions to West Texas State School, the Texas Youth Commission, and the troubled youth of Texas. Markham and Russey both spent their TYC careers as juvenile correction officers at WTSS.

Dorm 7 students presented Mrs. Markham with a commemorative plaque composed of photos recording her 19 years at WTSS. Her dorm co-workers also presented her with gifts of luggage and a wall clock.

Officials at WTSS say it will be difficult to replace Russey and Markham.

The Texas Youth Commission is the state’s juvenile corrections agency. West Texas State School is one of 15 secure TYC facilities across the state . Currently, the school serves all boys between the ages of 10 and 20, with an average population of 250. The children are committed to the school for a variety of offenses and must complete not only their minimum time, but also an intensive Resocialization program before they are released. In addition to a very structured 16-hour day, WTSS students also participate in a variety of community service projects.

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