At the age of 35, Alejandro Dias Sanchez emerged as a prominent figure in the 2023-2024 school year at TCS, specifically in the realm of mathematics. His journey into teaching is a story of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing student success.
Diaz’s journey at the Columbus School commenced in 2022, initially as a substitute teacher. However, he was delayed a year. Despite this setback, after a full recovery, he returned to the school, this time taking on the role of a teacher within the learning center, catering to middle and high school students.
“I was in a devastating motorcycle accident which set back my aspirations and initial start date for a year,” Alejandro Diaz, Learning Center Teacher said.
According to Diaz, he has a deep-seated belief that education extends beyond formal learning, delving into the realms of nurturing dreams and aspirations. The Columbus School aligns with his vision, providing a myriad of opportunities and options for students, reflecting a modern approach to education. He emphasized that he studied at Colegio Calazans, an all-male institution with uniforms and daily church attendance, so consequently, he was intrigued by the Columbus School’s progressive approach to education.
“It was a breath of fresh air to be in such an innovative school that puts education above tradition,” Diaz said
The abundance of resources, including personal computers for teachers, pleasantly surprised him. He said “Despite the school’s reputation as an elite institution”, he approached it with an open mind, eager to form his own perspective. He discovered that the Columbus School’s community was not defined by stereotypes but rather by diverse groups of individuals, some of whom radiated a unique tranquility and kindness.
“Don’t laugh at me, but when I thought about this school, I immediately pictured paradise,” Diaz said
Diaz was born in Medellín, Antioquia, in 1985. During his scholarly studies, he discovered his vocation for service through the traditional act of “Caballeros de la Virgen de Fatima.” Following his early education, Diaz pursued studies in chemical engineering at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. However, due to health issues, he had to temporarily step away from his academic pursuits. He realized that chemical engineering was not his true calling, but teaching was. It was the warmth and appreciation he received from the students he privately tutored that ignited his passion for education. Diaz has dedicated eight years to formal teaching and 15 to 16 years as a private instructor, mentoring students toward achieving academic excellence.
“What drives me to teach is the warmth and kindness that I receive from students,” Diaz, said.
Diaz is a passionate sports enthusiast and has practiced martial arts since the age of six, holding a black belt in Taekwondo. However, Diaz says his greatest passion revolves around motorcycles, stating how he derives immense joy from customizing, and restoring machines. In the realm of literature, Diaz’s favorite author is Alan Paulson and his preferred book is “Cero Absoluto.” When it comes to cinema, his heart belongs to the movie “Intocable,” and he deeply appreciates the work of director Antoine Fuqua.
Diaz is happily married to a third-grade teacher, and they reside in La Ceja and tends to spend quality time with not only his family but colleagues as well.
In the few days that I’ve been here I’ve felt friendliness, helplessness, and supportiveness of all of my colleagues and institute ranging from the students, to the very headmaster,” Diaz said.
