Investment Strategy Content Provider Empowering Educators in Retirement Planning

Hello, I’m Steve Schullo, and I’m here to ensure that K-12 educators receive the fair treatment they deserve when managing their 403(b) or 457(b) tax-deferred retirement plans. As an investment strategy content provider, I also support working families in navigating their 401(k) plans to secure a solid financial future.

As a retired public school educator, alongside my late husband and coauthor, Dan Robertson, I have encountered the pitfalls and peaks of retirement savings. We, too, fell victim to high-cost insurance products disguised as viable retirement plans. However, unlike the unethical sales tactics we’ve witnessed, I stand to guide you with integrity and experience.

While Dan passed away in 2015, his legacy of empowering others financially remains strong, as shown by our shared insights.

Beyond preparing for retirement, I cherish a lifestyle abundant in opportunities. From embracing green technology like electric cars and solar energy to sharing financial literacy, my goal is to enhance society and inspire you to seek similar advantages.

I am a Ph.D. graduate from UCLA in 1996, with a profound dedication to the betterment of educators’ financial literacy and retirement planning. My journey started in the classrooms of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and branched out to influence the broader educational community through my writings, advocacy, and direct action.

For over two decades, I imparted knowledge on educational technology to student teachers both as a long-standing educator within LAUSD and at UCLA Extension. My passion for financial literacy led me to author investment advice articles for the United Teacher-Los Angeles newspaper for thirteen years.

Recognizing the urgent need for informed retirement planning, I co-founded 403bAware alongside Sandy Keaton, aimed at empowering teachers with vital investment knowledge.

My efforts in retirement plan advocacy have been featured prominently in the Los Angeles Times and U.S. News and World Report, making significant strides toward reform. Serving as a member and former co-chair on the LAUSD’s Investment Advisory Committee for over a decade, I have vigilantly overseen the retirement plans of thousands, valued at $2.8 billion. This commitment was honored with the “Unsung Hero” award by UTLA, marking a proud moment in my advocacy journey.

The inception of my blog in 2012 marked a new chapter in my mission to extend my reach to PreK-12 educators nationwide. It became a platform not just for LAUSD educators but for all who seek refuge from the pitfalls of inadequate retirement plans like Tax Sheltered Annuities (TSAs).

Through collective wisdom at 403bwise.org and my direct experience with the challenges of TSAs, I aim to steer educators away from plans that benefit only the salesperson.

Fueled by personal grievances with the retirement planning industry, I penned “Fighting Powerful Interests,” a testament to overcoming the adversities posed by TSAs. This narrative chronicles the battle against such powerful interests and serves as a guide to securing a victorious retirement plan.

Alongside my late husband, Dan Robertson, we authored Late Bloomer Millionaires, a financial guide for those starting their investment journey later in life. Dan’s legacy continues through our shared vision of a financially educated teaching community.

Dan Robertson (1941-2015) was an esteemed educator and an advocate for financial literacy. With a Ph.D. from UCLA in 1978, he devoted 28 years to teaching special education at both elementary and graduate levels. As the Director of the Employment and Training Center for Persons with Disabilities at California State University, Los Angeles, Dan excelled in program management, securing $3.5 million in grants, establishing budgets, and administering financial oversight.

His expertise in personal finance and investment, accrued over 25 years, led him to implement a low-cost 403b plan at an LGBT recovery center, reflecting his commitment to accessible financial solutions for various communities. The couple’s united efforts in financial education were highlighted in the Los Angeles Times Money Makeover feature in 1996, marking a milestone in their shared mission.

Despite Dan’s passing from cancer on October 20, 2015, his legacy persists through Steve’s continued dedication to providing comprehensive financial education via their blog. For 40 years, Dan and Steve’s partnership not only thrived in their personal life but also made a significant impact in the fight for financially informed educators.

For educators seeking a brighter financial future, free from the clutches of high-cost retirement plans, I invite you to join our cause. Together, we can navigate the complexities of retirement planning and secure the prosperous future you deserve. Explore our resources, share in our community’s wisdom at 403bwise.com, and let’s chart a path to financial empowerment.

With a legacy fueled by passion, experience, and unwavering commitment, I am here to guide you through the maze of financial planning and ensure your victorious outcome. Let’s embark on this journey together. Welcome to a community where your financial well-being is the priority. Welcome to a future where you are in control.