Joe Duran, left, a former student of Joseph Viscuso Sr., stands beside Viscuso and the commemorative plaque installed at the Live Oak High School woodshop honoring Viscuso's teaching legacy. Photo courtesy of Joe Duran

LIVE OAK, CA (MPG) - The legacy of a Live Oak High School teacher was commemorated Saturday, June 27, when the school's woodshop classroom was named in honor of Joseph Viscuso Sr.

In April 2026, the Live Oak Unified School District Board adopted a resolution honoring retired teacher Joseph Viscuso Sr., describing him as someone who "continuously portrays a dedicated, motivated, caring, fair, excellent role model to the youth of Live Oak."

The board expressed its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Viscuso and dedicated the Live Oak High School woodshop classroom to the retired educator. It was the board's hope, along with those who championed having Viscuso Sr.'s name placed on the building, that future generations would recognize his considerable contributions and service to Live Oak students.

More than a month later, alumni, family and friends gathered with Viscuso Sr. to dedicate the plaque honoring his teaching legacy, which was installed on the building.

Joe Duran, a 1990 alumnus, spoke during the dedication ceremony.

"A building can be constructed out of wood, steel, and concrete, but a teacher builds something far more enduring," said Duran. "A teacher builds character, confidence and gives us opportunity. With his patience, guidance and dedication, he's helped generations of students discover not only how to work with their hands but to believe in themselves."

Viscuso reminisced about the long hours he spent in the building and the fun he shared with students over the years.

"I'm really proud of the fact that I've never had a major accident in 35 years,” Viscuso said, acknowledging that he was a tough teacher. “I'm proud of the fact that [students] really enjoyed me and what I had to offer. I'll never forget the faces and the love I got from them.”

Live Oak Unified School District Superintendent Matt Gulbrandsen, who first met Viscuso 30 years ago, also spoke during the ceremony and presented him with a framed copy of the resolution naming the building in his honor.

"I truly know how special this community is and truly know the impact this man has made here," said Gulbrandsen.

Viscuso was visibly moved and thanked everyone who helped make the honor a reality.