Teachers of the Year

The Masons of California are proud sponsors of the California Teachers of the Year program offered by the California Department of Education.

This program pays tribute to California teachers who work together to confront the complex challenges at our schools.

California continues to face a critical teacher shortage. As symbols of an honored profession, California Teachers of the Year play a pivotal role in drawing new people into the field. Each year, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction names five extraordinary educators as California's Teachers of the Year. One of the five will go on to represent California in consideration for the National Teacher of the Year honor.

2008 Teachers of the Year

Andee Aceves teaches third grade at San Altos Elementary School in Lemon Grove in the Lemon Grove School District, San Diego County.

Lewis Chappelear teaches engineering design at James Monroe High School in North Hills in the Los Angeles Unified School District, Los Angeles County. He is also the school's IMPACT crisis coordinator.

Michael Allen Long teaches a combination fourth and fifth grade at Carmela Elementary School in Whittier in the South Whittier School District, Los Angeles County.

Gregory McFall teaches U.S. History at Johnson Middle School in Westminster in the Westminster Elementary School District, Orange County.

Tamara "Tammy" Reina teaches English and U.S. History at East Mesa School in San Diego's all-male East Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility.