By Richard Bammer
Masons have long been supporters of public education, beginning with Benjamin Franklin, who became one in 1731, and, nine years later, founded a free school that eventually became the University of Pennsylvania.
Observing that legacy of support for education and educators, the Vacaville Masons on Tuesday will honor the 2017 Vacaville Unified Teacher of the Year, Tracy Ruiz.
A 10th-grade English teacher at Will C. Wood High, she will be feted for her achievement with a dinner at the Vacaville Masonic Lodge, 897 Cotting Lane, near Vaca Valley Parkway and Interstate 505. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., and the public is invited. Cost is $10 per person. For more information about the dinner, email David Johnson, a retired investment adviser and lodge chaplain, at daviddj1933@gmail.com.