Originally published on 10/8/19
Alvin ISD staff, students, school board members, parents, and community members filled the cafeteria on October 6, 2019 for a special dedication at ‘Bel Nafegar Sanchez Elementary School. Over 600 people gathered at the new campus to honor its namesake, retired educator and administrator ‘Bel Sanchez. The new campus is located in the Sterling Lakes subdivision.
‘Bel Sanchez started her career in Alvin ISD in 1977 as an educator where her passion for student success became her guiding light. She started at Alvin Jr. High and moved to Harby Jr. High winning the title of “Teacher of the Year” for both campuses. Her love of teaching was evident each and every day within the classroom. Mrs. Sanchez was named the Director of Bilingual and ELL programs and developed a highly successful Dual Language program still being implemented throughout the district. She retired from the school district in 2011 after 30 years of service and has continued to touch the lives of students every day.
The ‘Bel Sanchez Elementary campus consists of new classrooms, science labs, a cafeteria with stage, library, kitchen, a music room, administrative offices, a clinic and a gym. Principal Rosemary Reed leads the campus and is excited to have had the opportunity to open this beautiful new school.
“Mrs. Sanchez is always welcome on this beautiful campus. She is an inspirational woman and I’m honored to be leading an amazing team here at Sanchez Elementary,” Reed said.
Many friends, family, and coworkers of ‘Bel Sanchez showed up to the dedication to honor the woman they say helped make Alvin ISD the district it is today. The West Side Elementary Musical students started the program by singing an excerpt from their musical, “The Magic Treehouse.” Superintendent Carol Nelson brought greetings and State Representative, Ed Thompson, presented Mrs. Sanchez with a Proclamation.
Shirley Brothers and Paula Camacho, friends and former co-workers of ‘Bel spoke a few words about the impact ‘Bel Sanchez made on them and the lives of the children of Alvin ISD.
“’Bel Sanchez was and remains an Alvin ISD staple. It is only fitting to name and dedicate this elementary to her. I could not be happier to be a part of such an incredible ceremony,” Alvin ISD Superintendent Carol Nelson said.
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