Every day, members of Mariachi Huenachi gather their instruments and practice the same songs that have brought Wenatchee’s community together, They have travelled from Spokane to Seattle, and even played for the governor. The soaring Mariachi program is directed by their award-winning leader, Ramon Rivera.

Rivera moved to Wenatchee from California eleven years ago to begin working for Wenatchee High School. Although he arrived not knowing anyone, he now feels important in the community due to the popularity of Mariachi. “It just feels like [I’m] the varsity football coach,” Rivera said.

Since starting at Wenatchee High school, Rivera and Mariachi Huenachi have brought in many awards, including The Golden Apple Award, the highest prize for education, and the Jefferson award for community service.

More recently, The White House recognized the program with a presidential award as one of the top Hispanic programs in the country. “I just can’t believe all the accolades our program is getting,” Rivera said. “I was just happy to be nominated and for our congressman to recognize us is a winning situation already. And for us to be known at The White House and known at the United States Congress, it’s huge. It’s huge for Wenatchee, huge for Wenatchee High School and huge for our students.”

“This year, to be honored by The White House, I’m on cloud nine. I just can’t believe that our little tiny Mariachi program is up with the best of the best. Our big help has been our Superintendent Mr. Flones,” Rivera said. “We get a chance to meet every year and he goes, “How can I support your program?” and that’s just been an amazing feat for us.” Rivera also said that the community is extremely supportive of the program and is blessed that Wenatchee Valley believes in art and education so much.

What Rivera loves about Mariachi is that he has a chance to give his students hope. He loves to see his students go on to be teachers, medical students, and modern-day role models. “I think that without this program they wouldn’t have that kind of same success because this is just more of a motivation,” Rivera said.

One of the Presidents of the program, senior Esmeralda Mora, focuses on leadership, higher education, and connecting with the people. “Any skill you can think of, we learn it,” Mora said.

Rivera also believes that his students should focus on life outside of Mariachi as well. “He’s always encouraging and encourages us to keep studying and keep our grades up, that’s always #1 for him,” Mariachi Huenachi member Christian Rivera said.

All of Mariachi’s success can be contributed to not only the Director, but the students’ passion for music and the community’s support. “I just see the passion that the students have and I see the support of our administration and our school board and our superintendent, I think it’s the perfect formula, ” Rivera said. “So when all of those stars align, we see success. I’m just super proud to be a part of this school district.”