Two District Educators Awarded “Teacher of the Year” by Local Masonic Lodge

DOWNIEVILLE — On May 26th, the Downieville School hosted an event featuring a small meal that drew more than 40 people to their annual Open House and Ice Cream Social, co-sponsored by the Sierra City Free & Accepted Masons Harmony Lodge #164.

Each year, the members of Harmony Lodge #164 provide donations to worthy causes in need within schools or recognize community members who go above and beyond their duties in their careers or as volunteers. This year, members of Harmony Lodge #164 created the Michael P. Galan Memorial Fund, honoring a 57-year Mason and resident of Downieville who passed away last year after a long battle with an illness. Galan was a pillar member not just of Harmony Lodge but of the local community. The Memorial Fund was created to ensure a perpetual commitment to assisting others and to recognizing outstanding members of the Sierra County community who are committed to improving society and inspiring others to do more and become better citizens.

This year, the Master of Harmony Lodge #164, Bill Miklos, decided to recognize not one, but two Sierra-Plumas Unified School District teachers. The 2026 Teachers of the Year are Mrs. Faith Edwards of the Downieville School, and Mrs. Amber Williams of Loyalton High School.

Nominated by School District Superintendent Sean Snider, he described Faith as “an outstanding classroom teacher who is the kind of teacher that is always looking to grow. She has earned the respect and trust of students, staff, and the families of the school…her willingness to step up [and accept] the role of Principal with the recent retirement of Mr. Berardi. Balancing both responsibilities is no small task, but she has done so with grace, dedication, and a clear focus on what is best for students.” He ended his comments by sharing, “We are incredibly fortunate to have Faith serving our school, both in the classroom and now as principal. She cares deeply about her students, her staff, and her community, and it shows in everything she does.”

Mrs. Caroline “Cali” Griffin, Principal, nominated Mrs. Amber Williams as the 2026 Teacher of the Year at Loyalton High School. Cali says Amber “exemplifies excellence in teaching, leadership, and service. Her willingness to step into new roles and create engaging, real-world learning opportunities is a testament to her dedication and versatility as an educator.” Amber is the grade 9-12 math teacher and also “the district’s Math, Science, & Computer Science - STEM coordinator who is piloting an innovative, instructional learning model.” Cali concluded by praising Amber’s leadership, including as the Associated Student Body advisor, where she dedicates significant time to building school culture and student leadership.

Each teacher received a plaque commemorating their outstanding achievements, and a $400 check from the lodge members, presented by Mr. Miklos.

Afterward, all those in attendance excitedly walked up to the school classrooms to get their fill of ice cream and dessert fixings. The teachers opened their classrooms, giving visitors the chance to vote on student projects, and gave a Renaissance dance demonstration performed by teachers and students. Teachers also had the opportunity to speak directly to the community about projects from previous years and the progress toward the next school year.

The Ice Cream Social has been in existence for over 80 years, during which the Downieville School and Harmony Lodge #164 have partnered together to keep a traditional legacy going for generations of parents and students to enjoy the Open House while tasting the refreshing ice cream and meeting the local Masons who enjoy serving it to their community.