Kern County Educators, Leaders Honored at Freedom Dreaming Event

Despite decades of effort, Black/African American and other marginalized students continue to face systemic barriers to academic and social-emotional success. That reality set the tone today during the opening day of the Freedom Dreaming conference at KCSOS’s Bell Tower Plaza, which also marked the first multi-day event hosted at the newly opened venue.

Freedom Dreaming is a collaborative effort between the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s GENIUS Initiative, KCSOS, and key regional partners including 21CSLA and the GeoLead Valley to Coast Collaborative. Grounded in the Supporting the African American Learner (STAAL) Framework, the event focuses on equipping teams with the knowledge and resources needed to address systemic barriers and improve outcomes for students.

“This experience is designed to bring teams together to learn, reflect, and take action,” said Candi Huizar, Ed.D., Executive Director of School District and Regional Support at KCSOS. “We hope educators leave feeling empowered and confident that their efforts can and do make a difference.”

Throughout the opening day, participants explored the STAAL Framework, connected with community partners, and began engaging in team-based planning centered on implementing research-driven strategies. Additional sessions featuring PK–12 and higher education leaders, as well as student voices, will continue over the next two days.

The event also marks a milestone for Kern County, as it is the first time the GENIUS Initiative has brought the Freedom Dreaming experience outside of Los Angeles.

“We are proud that KCSOS is the first county to host this event,” Huizar said. “It speaks to the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to improving outcomes for students.”

The day also included the presentation of the 2026 EMBRACE Champion Awards, recognizing individuals across Kern County for their commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable environments where students and communities can thrive.

Congratulations to the 2026 EMBRACE Champion Award Honorees:

Educator – Teacher
Adriana E. Maldonado
Panama Buena-Vista Union School District

Maldonado was recognized for creating a classroom environment where every student feels welcomed, valued, and excited to learn. As a kindergarten teacher in a dual immersion program, she has spent more than a decade helping young learners — many entering school for the first time — build confidence, cultural pride, and a love for learning. Her work extended beyond academics, fostering strong relationships with families and nurturing the whole child to ensure long-term success.

Educator – Administration
Tabatha Haney
Greenfield Union School District
Director of Special Education

Haney was honored for her highly effective leadership in special education. In less than a year, she led a districtwide transition to full-day inclusion models, ensuring students with disabilities could remain in less restrictive environments. Through collaboration, coaching, and professional development, she helped staff build the capacity to support diverse learners, expanding access to meaningful academic and social experiences for all students.

Community Member/Organization
Odessa “Dess” Perkins
emPOWERment, CEO

Perkins was recognized for turning her lived experience into impactful community advocacy. A human trafficking survivor, she founded emPOWERment to support at-risk youth and survivors through services such as counseling, scholarships, training, and outreach. Her work has reached hundreds of individuals across Kern County, providing pathways to healing and opportunity while raising awareness about human trafficking and supporting those in need.

Educator – Support Staff
Wesley E. Davis
Bakersfield City School District
Behavior Intervention Specialist

Davis was honored for his compassionate, student-centered approach to supporting youth facing behavioral and emotional challenges. Serving at Sequoia Junior High, he has built strong relationships with students and staff, helping create safe, inclusive environments rooted in empathy and understanding. His work in trauma-informed practices and restorative approaches helped guide students toward growth, healing, and success.