By: Mina Gonzalez and Jocelyn Vazquez
Great teachers are those we remember years from now when we look back and think, I’m here because they believed in me. For El Monte City School District (EMCSD), Victor Williams is that teacher; he has made his mark not only in the hearts of his students but also among his colleagues. Recently named EMCSD’s 2025 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Williams’ contributions to the community are innumerable.
Since he began working at EMCSD back in 2013, Mr. Williams has made his impact through music as Potrero’s band teacher. He encourages students to reach for their full potential and embrace their strengths. When he is not teaching music, he organizes events for families, leads the annual Washington D.C. Trip, and volunteers to help his colleagues however he can. When asked what has encouraged him to stick around this long, he delightedly replied, “I’ve felt extremely supported my entire time here, and I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else.”
For Mr. Williams, Potrero is more than just a workplace; it is his second home. He shared, “I couldn’t ask for better colleagues here. Everyone here is a team player and does what’s best for our kids. My students—they’re the reason I come [to work] every day.”
His compassion and dedication have been felt on that campus since the moment he started. Potrero Principal Evelyn Barba explained, “I have had the unique opportunity to know him both as a colleague and a friend. I initially served as his peer mentor, and now have the honor of being his principal. When Victor began, many students in his classes had never held an instrument or read a note of music. Today, his students confidently perform in high school marching bands, district honor bands, and orchestras. His ability to build a program from the ground up — rooted in high expectations, patience, and joyful rigor — is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Upon learning he had been awarded Teacher of the Year, Mr. Williams admitted he felt overwhelmed with gratitude, “My first thought was, oh my goodness, I can’t even believe this! I was in a state of shock.” Potrero students and staff all congratulated and validated how deserving he was of this recognition.
“When we surprised Victor at Potrero with the Teacher of the Year announcement, it was during a leadership meeting with students, and they couldn’t contain our excitement,” shared EMCSD Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia. “Students immediately began sharing why they believed he deserved this distinguished honor. What was supposed to be a quick surprise turned into a celebration of everything Mr. Williams stands for as an educator, colleague, and mentor. Every district deserves a Victor Williams, and we are grateful he has chosen EMCSD as his home.”
When Dr. Garcia asked students why they believed he deserved the awards, students shouted praise after praise, like, He does the most for this school!, He treats everyone with respect!, He even helps at schools outside of [Potrero]! The care Mr. Williams shows for his students and community does not go unnoticed, especially by the kids he serves daily.
