Teach it Forward: Lisa’s Legacy Lives On

My name is Lindsey Viramontes, and my mother was Leslie Williams.

She was one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever known—kind, selfless, and full of life. A dedicated educator, she spent her career nurturing and inspiring students as a second-grade teacher, a gifted teacher, and later as a media specialist. Her students loved her. Her coworkers respected and admired her. And everyone who crossed her path felt her warmth, strength, and generosity.

In 2018, the world was forever changed when my mother and my sister were tragically murdered. The loss is something I carry with me every single day. But so is the love, passion, and legacy my mother left behind—one that deserves to be honored and remembered.

Some of my favorite memories are of helping her decorate her classroom. Every detail mattered to her because every child mattered to her. She often spent her own money—on borders, posters, pencils, folders, books, and more—to make sure her students had everything they needed to thrive. Even when money was tight, she never hesitated. Teaching was her calling, and she gave it everything she had.

This year, in honor of what would have been her 64th birthday, I’m launching a fundraiser in her memory. The funds raised will go directly toward purchasing school supplies for teachers in Florida—especially at the schools where she taught, including Rivers Edge Elementary. These supplies will support classrooms and teachers who, like my mom, go above and beyond to give their students the very best.

If you knew Lisa—if you were her student, her colleague, her friend—or if her story touches your heart, please consider donating in her memory. While I would give anything to be celebrating her birthday with her, this is my way of giving back in her name, continuing the work she loved, and keeping her beautiful spirit alive.

Thank you so much for your support.

With love,

Lindsey Viramontes