As I sit here in Vegas on my 11th New Year’s Eve, I am thankful for so much. I started the year teaching 6th grade English Language Arts and History at Standard Middle School in Bakersfield, California. In March, I received notice that I would not be finishing the year. I had hoped that I would find out the reasons, but as of today, I still do not know the reasoning for the district’s decision. I changed my focus and started a job search outside of the classroom, aiming to put my MBA in Public Administration to use.
I continued to be active in Meudell-Oildale #695, Bakersfield Chapter #125 (serving as Worthy Patron), and Fremont Court #49 (beginning the year as Associate Patron and now as Royal Patron). I am thankful for my Brothers and Sisters and the Honored Ladies and Sir Knights of the Masonic Family. My Masonic career has not been without challenges, but I am looking forward to the future.
I was able to attend Grand Court of California, Order of the Amaranth, in February in Visalia, California. I was installed in my third Grand Office, Grand Prelate. I attended Supreme Council Order of the Amaranth in Glendale, Arizona in July. In September, I attended the Reception for the Supreme Associate Matron and Supreme Associate Patron in Walnut Creek, California.
I continued my involvement in the Masonic youth groups. I am an advisor for Bakersfield Chapter Order of DeMolay. I attended Southern California Jurisdiction Order of DeMolay Conclave in Riverside, California. I am also Associate Bethel Guardian for Bakersfield Bethel #327. I was able to attend Grand Bethel in Modesto, California.
In October I was able to represent my Lodge as Senior Warden at Annual Communication in San Francisco, California. It was an opportunity to reconnect, and connect, with Masons from all over California and the world.
At a dinner in San Francisco, a fellow Mason, and a Past Master, suggested that I look into becoming a Correctional Officer (CO). I was hesitant, to be honest, but at the end of October, I took a chance and applied. I passed the written test, scheduled my Physical Fitness Test (which I passed), and am now working on getting information for my Background Check. I am excited and nervous about this potential career change, as it was not something that I had thought of. I do not know where this career will take me, could still be in Kern County or somewhere else in California.
I returned to the classroom as a Substitute teacher in the Kern High School District (KHSD). Assignments have been a challenge to accept as there is a lot of competition. I am confident that I will be working more in KHSD during 2026, while I am working through the process to become a CO.
I am so thankful for my mom, who has been my biggest supporter in all I do. I am thankful for all the friends and family who have supported me throughout 2025. There are too many to list, but y’all (😊) know who you are. Much Love!
May 2026 be the best year for everyone. I am always nostalgic as a new year begins, but I am also hopeful.
Happy New Year!