LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Laijah Williams

Position: Career Technical Education (CTE)
School: Cal Burke High School
School District: Los Angeles Unified School District
City, State: Panorama City, CA

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Laijah Williams was nominated by the principal, Trebor Jacquez. 

Ms. Williams serves as a Career Technical Education (CTE) teacher at Cal Burke High School. In her classroom, she creates engaging, hands-on learning experiences that connect academic skills to real-world applications. She consistently builds strong relationships with students, inspiring them to take pride in their work, persist through challenges, and see themselves as capable creators and professionals. Her approach motivates students to complete meaningful projects and remain engaged in their learning, even beyond the traditional school day.

"Ms. Williams works at Cal Burke High School and is in her first year of teaching. What sets Ms. Williams apart is her unwavering commitment to students beyond contractual obligations. She volunteers her time after school to support students who need extra help completing their projects, ensuring they feel supported and successful. Her willingness to give additional time demonstrates genuine care for students' growth, confidence, and achievement," said Jacquez.

Ms. Williams is inspired by her belief that every student deserves encouragement, opportunity, and someone who will not give up on them. She understands that many continuation students face obstacles outside of school and is motivated to provide them with stability, mentorship, and hope through education. This life-changing impact has occurred throughout the current school year, as Ms. Williams has consistently provided extended learning opportunities and after-school support since joining Cal Burke.

Lastly, Ms. Williams worked on a grant for her program, and next year, Cal Burke will be awarded $28,000 for technology in her class. She did this in her first year.

Comments (68)

Cerelia Posted 1 months ago

Ms. Laijah Williams is a focused, passionate, and dedicated woman who honed her craft to perfection. When Ms. Williams sets a goal to achieve, she will work through all challenges that come her way and overcome them because she remembers what she envisioned the outcome she had in her mind and heart. Ms. Williams has blossomed into a beautiful woman who has a heart to share her craft and empower others to believe in themselves and do the same. I am so very proud of you, Ms. Williams. Your dedication and hard work has made room for you to grow and shine. I can speak to this from seeing you evolve from childhood to present.

Eric Harris Posted 1 months ago

Her creativity will be asset to your program

aimee garcia fuentes Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams has brought not just a creative space for the students at Cal Burke, but and outlet that is easily applicable to the real world. Many students are very creative and have untapped artistic talents and it has been exciting to see how Ms. Williams has help students open up to find theirs voice in art.

Trebor Jacquez Posted 2 months ago

As the proud Principal of Cal Burke High School in Panorama City, I am deeply honored to recognize Ms. Williams and the tremendous impact she has made on our school community. In just one year, she has played a pivotal role in reshaping our school’s vision and mission by serving as our first Career Technical Education (CTE) teacher. Ms. Williams has demonstrated exceptional ownership of her classroom, creating meaningful, project-based learning experiences that actively engage students in real-world applications. Through her instruction, students have designed and produced T-shirts, stickers, coffee mugs, and graphic design posters—projects that not only showcase their creativity but also build valuable career-ready skills. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to bringing CTE to the forefront of our curriculum have transformed learning at Cal Burke. She has helped move our school toward authentic, real-world learning experiences that prepare students for success beyond high school.

Nicole Rodriguez Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams has been an integral part of our communities not only through her teaching but also through her business. She has created a space for students to create and have access to tools they need to start their businesses. Ms. Williams is awesome!

Uchenna O Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is one person that strives to leave every life she touches better than she found it. Her kindness, generosity, strength, and unwavering support for others continue to inspire so many people. She leads with compassion, serve with humility, and uplift everyone around you without expecting anything in return. This nomination for the Life Changer of the Year Award is so well deserved. Thank you for being a light, a blessing, and a true difference-maker in the lives of others. Wishing you great success — you have already won in the hearts of many. Your school community is lucky to have you.

Emaurie Posted 2 months ago

Consistently turns challenges into positive outcomes for others. Highly recommend!

Baus Posted 2 months ago

Congratulations! Thanks for creating/making all our promotional wear.

JW Posted 2 months ago

Congratulations and keep up the good work!

Ashley CazareVillareal Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams has a positive attitude that makes a difference in the learning world. She dedicates her time and effort to her students. She creates a welcoming environment where her students can learn and grow. Ms. Williams goes above and beyond! She’s truly an asset in the teaching profession.

Maricela Rojas Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams joined our Cal Burke family this school year and brought a wonderful program. Through this program our students are able to learn and develop a skill, they will use for life.

aimee garcia fuentes Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams has brought not just a creative space for the students at Cal Burke, but and outlet that is easily applicable to the real world. Many students are very creative and have untapped artistic talents and it has been exciting to see how Ms. Williams has help students open up to find theirs voice in art.

Stacey Dwiggins Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Laijah Williams has made an impact on our Cal Burke students. This is her first year of teaching and she is already building strong relationships with students and staff. She has worked with the students to design logos and products for current businesses and those that they dream of owning in the future. She has given them a creative outlet in a class that is fun and helps them to build graphic design skills, as well as communication skills. We are fortunate to have her as a member of our Cal Burke family.

Lucio Olvera Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is an amazing and hardworking teacher who motivates and encourages her students academically and personally. She welcomes each student with a smile and ensures that they understand the assignments and complete each task. Ms. Williams is a great asset to our school community.

Lorene Havkett Posted 2 months ago

Very well deserving of this achievement. To be a leader with great personal qualities is a privilege and honor that is shared among all who she interact with. Dedicated hardworking part of the nucleus to her school. Happy to support her in every way.

Diana Pizano Posted 2 months ago

I recently had the opportunity to meet Ms. Williams and it’s clear she truly cares about her students and the work she does. The dedication and support she provides to students at Cal Burke is inspiring. Please take a moment to support her she is making a positive impact and is deserving of this recognition. Congratulations Ms. Williams !!

Stevie Adamo Jackson Posted 2 months ago

She is a very dedicated and hardworking person. I am proud of her and glad to support her any way I can.

Haydee Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is an essential part of our school community. She is motivated and dedicated to helping each one of her students.

Alan vazquez Posted 2 months ago

this is the best most fun class ever experiencing different things like making sticker, shirts much more as a student in this classes very fun and educational.

kevin Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams class is fun and one of the best classes we have in this school.

Nevaeh Posted 2 months ago

she is an outstanding teacher who's given me time to learn about my inner self and explore my knowledge with many subjectives .

ashley Posted 2 months ago

she is very well educated and is a good role model for those in need , I enjoy her teaching and skills that help me learn about life skills she's a great teacher.

TW Posted 2 months ago

She most definitely deserves the award… she demonstrates what it’s like to be an achiever and be a great example for the youth! The school is fortunate to have you.

Trevone Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is an exceptionally dedicated, driven, and hardworking teacher who consistently goes the extra mile for her students. She is deeply committed to supporting and motivating them to achieve success both academically and personally.

Jeanette Franco Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is supporting , motivated, and hardworking teacher who consistently goes above and beyond for her students and even staff. She continuously supports and encourages them to succeed both academically and personally, always creating a positive and inspiring learning environment. In addition to her commitment to her students, she is a true team player who is always willing to help and support her colleagues. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication make a lasting impact on everyone around her. Ms. Williams truly deserves this Life Changer Award for the positive difference she makes every single day and every school year.

emily torres Posted 2 months ago

I really enjoy this class there is many reasons why I enjoy this class. One reason is because this class has a great vibe its very comfortable, along with its easy for me to complete work

Daniella Richardson Posted 2 months ago

I really enjoy this class. The atmosphere is more than comforting, and it is an easy environment to work in. In this class, I have learned how to graphic design and create many things using the Cricut.

Julie Krofta Posted 2 months ago

Laijah Williams is an asset to our school community. She has brought in skill and talent that affords our students many new artistic avenues. Her innovation brings student participation and success to a new level. Laijah has developed trust with the students, connects, and meets individual needs. She provides skills that will help our students be college and career ready after graduation!

allen Posted 2 months ago

I love ms Williams class because she makes the work not feel like its work and she make it fun. ms Williams class room is nice and peaceful.

chardnae Posted 2 months ago

Great teacher!

Dalese Hardin Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams’ positive energy is refreshing. The students love her class and are always excited to finish their assignments. Her class teaches skills students can utilize, but also makes students feel very proud of their work and inspired to come to school.

Alvaro Pulido Posted 2 months ago

Laijah Williams is an amazing young woman. No doubt she is bound to achieve great things in life. A blessing to have her as part of our community. Life changer for sure, dedicated to her students and community.

Aricka Oliver Posted 2 months ago

Laijah is hard working, dedicated, and committed to growth! Her creativity continues to expand in and out of the classroom. She cares for the students development and understanding and takes her time to make sure they are on the right track.

Jonathan Ramírez Posted 2 months ago

Congratulation for your achievement

Edward Posted 2 months ago

One of the most dedicated and helpful people I’ve come across

Oliver and Yvette Davis Posted 2 months ago

Laijah Williams is an extraordinary individual and educator. This is a true testament to her father, Johnnie Williams, who did a magnificent job raising a daughter who brings so much good into the world.

Keith Johnson Posted 2 months ago

Laijah Williams is the definition of a LifeChanger. In her very first year as a Career Technical Education (CTE) teacher at Cal Burke High School, she has already made a lasting impact on students, staff, and the entire school community. Nominated by Principal Trebor Jacquez, Ms. Williams is recognized not only for her innovative, hands-on teaching style, but for the genuine care and commitment she pours into every student she serves. Ms. Williams creates engaging learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to real-world opportunities, helping students see themselves as creators, professionals, and future leaders. She builds meaningful relationships with students and encourages them to push through challenges, take pride in their work, and remain committed to their goals. What truly sets Ms. Williams apart is her dedication beyond the classroom. She consistently volunteers her personal time after school to help students complete projects and gain confidence in their abilities. Her support provides stability, mentorship, and hope to many continuation students who face challenges outside of school. In addition to transforming lives daily through education, Ms. Williams successfully secured a $28,000 technology grant for her program — an incredible accomplishment in her first year of teaching. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering belief in her students embody the true spirit of a LifeChanger of the Year nominee.

Francisco Hermosillo Posted 2 months ago

She deserves this award! Amazing and genuine person!

Madelyn Taylor Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams, I’m not surprised at your hard work and dedication to helping others. Your digital expertise is so inspiring to your students. Congratulations on your accomplishment!!

Patrice Williams Posted 2 months ago

Congratulations Laijah on your incredible, life changing achievement! Winning the Life Changer of the Year Award is a massive honor that proves you are making a profound, lasting impact on your Students and Community. I am incredibly proud of your hard work.

Christina Posted 2 months ago

I’m impressed with both your passion for this job and your students! You really deserve this award!

Joanne Boyd Posted 2 months ago

Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in the lives of your students. Cal Burke High School is fortunate to have you, and your future in education is incredibly bright. Congratulations again on a remarkable first year!

luther thomas Posted 2 months ago

I appreciate how attentive and helpful she was with students. Glad she was my kids teacher

Sheila Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is a kind and respectful individual. That every student deserves. Ms. Williams chose a career to be dedicated to students and give a great reflection in learning. And inspiring for the next generation to come. Keep going forth Ms. Williams and congratulations on your nomination

Obi Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams, you are an inspiration to us all. Keep up with your good works. Your school kids are extremely fortunate to have you.

Tanya williams Posted 2 months ago

Laijah is a smart and intelligent woman. She is so dedicated to her job and her students. She deserves this life changer award Congratulations Laijah

Ty Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is always there when you need her. She embodies teamwork and dedication. She’s made an huge impact with the students since she’s been there. Congratulations!!

Pepper McIntosh Posted 2 months ago

I’ve known Laila’s all her life. She comes from a huge family of Williams where there is nothing but love and family values. Those values have made Laijah the strong confident, caring women and mother she is today. Congrats well deserved!

Randy Smalls Posted 2 months ago

Ms Williams is a visionary teacher that is dedicated to bringing learning to life! she truly makes learning fun. She is always learning new methods to teach her students while giving them life skills and morals to take with them in life while they become young adults. Ms Williams is a resourceful leader with an abundance of knowledge in the subjects that she teaches. Mrs Williams is a pillar at her school and community and is always willing to go above and beyond to help her students achieve their educational and life goals. Ms. Williams is an inspirational teacher that lives, loves and breaths education and she would be an asset to any school she teaches at!

Raquel Villegas Posted 2 months ago

Congratulations Ms Williams! You are an amazing teacher that always goes above and beyond for all of your students. I am always so impressed at the projects the Cal Burke students complete in your classes. You are very deserving of this award.

Maria Brooks Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is such a smart young lady. She is always striving to learn new ways to improve. She is patient, loving, smart, fast learner, great mother, and such a strong woman. She definitely deserves this award. I am so proud of her. Congratulations Mija

juan del toro Posted 2 months ago

I think Ms.Williams is a good candidate because she helps all students with whatever they need help in and she doesn't judge the students by the way they do their design, she also was always the best during class and outside of class well.

AHMAD Posted 2 months ago

ms. williams changed is the best teacher, being in her class has changed my life.

oscar valeriano Posted 2 months ago

I like the activities and vibes in Ms Williams classroom.

Pat Montgomery Posted 2 months ago

Congraulation's sweet heart im very proud of u, ur a hard worker and a Blessing to all

Denise bradley Posted 2 months ago

Laijah is a wonderful smart beautiful Intelligent person who will go an extra mile to help others she has a heart of gold she deserves the award for her classroom to help her students to learn and grow

Shavon Harris Posted 2 months ago

LAIJAH IS AN AMAZING YOUNG WOMAN WHO IS AN EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATOR, SHE IS PATIENT, CARING, AND ATTENTIVE. SHE EXUDES THE POTENTIAL TO BE EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR.

Ana Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is an incredibly dedicated, motivated, and hardworking teacher who always goes above and beyond for her students. She continuously supports and encourages them to succeed both academically and personally. In addition to her commitment to students, she is also a true team player who is always willing to help and support her colleagues. She truly deserves this life-changer award for the positive impact she makes every day.

Aaliyah Williams Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams has been an inspiration with her digital media ideas since she was in elementary school. Even at a young age, she showed a natural curiosity for technology and creativity, often experimenting with new concepts and transforming them into imaginative drawings and digital designs. She has always welcomed fresh ideas, never hesitating to explore different perspectives or challenge herself to think in new ways. Her passion for teaching younger children has grown outside her artistic abilities. She has consistently shown a desire to help others discover their own creativity and confidence, believing that every child has the potential to make a meaningful difference in their lives. Whether she is guiding someone through a new project or encouraging them to express themselves brings patience, enthusiasm, and genuine care to every interaction. What truly sets Ms. Williams apart is her ability to think outside the box. She sees possibilities where others might see limitations, and she has a unique talent for bringing her ideas to life in ways that feel fresh, innovative, and inspiring. Her creativity is not just a skill, it is a driving force that motivates her to keep learning, growing, and keep uplifting the people around her.

Elisa Orellana Posted 2 months ago

Laijah Williams is truly deserving of the Life Changer of the Year Award. In her very first year of teaching at Cal Burke High School, she has gone above and beyond for her students. She not only creates engaging, hands-on lessons that connect learning to real life, but she also stays after school to help students complete their projects and build confidence in themselves. Ms. Williams genuinely cares about her students and works tirelessly to make sure they feel supported, encouraged, and capable of success. Her dedication has already made a lasting impact, and securing a $28,000 grant for new classroom technology in her first year is an incredible accomplishment. Laijah is changing lives every single day, and there is no one more deserving of this recognition.

John Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is an outstanding person. She is a giver and an excellent mother to her child. She really loves her job and her students. Congratulations on you nomination.

Alondra Chavez Posted 2 months ago

Congratulations! Proud of you!!

Rosie K. Posted 2 months ago

Ms. Williams is truly a LifeChanger at Cal Burke High School. In the classroom, she creates an environment where students feel valued, challenged, and supported. She teaches practical skills that extend far beyond the walls of school—skills they will carry into careers, higher education, and everyday life. What truly sets her apart is the way she connects learning to real life. She helps students understand that what they are learning today can directly shape their tomorrow. For many students, this realization is life-changing. She opens doors they may never have considered, introduces them to opportunities they may never have known existed, and empowers them to dream bigger than they thought possible.

Angie Posted 2 months ago

Even in her first year, she is already making such a huge impact! The students are so lucky to have a teacher who brings creativity, passion, and innovation into the classroom through graphic design. She encourages them to think outside the box, build confidence, and actually look forward to learning every day. Cal Burke High School is incredibly lucky to have her, and she is more than deserving of Educator of the Year!

Latricia Hardrick Posted 2 months ago

Your impact is a reflection of your dedication and heart. Wishing you continued recognition for the amazing work you do.

Terrence Gene Smith Jr. Posted 2 months ago

Go Laijah!

Kyle Broadnax Posted 2 months ago

You truly deserve this nomination — the way you impact and uplift the people around you doesn’t go unnoticed. Wishing you nothing but success for the Life Changer of the Year award!

Tia Posted 2 months ago

Well deserved!!!!!