Willie Sanchez, a former math and science teacher who spent nearly three decades in the classrooms of Questa High School and Middle School, sat down for a conversation with the Questa del Rio News at his son’s Denver home in early May. At 93 years of age, Sanchez reflects fondly on his teaching career that spanned the 1960s to the 1980s, though it was not without its challenges.Sanchez, who lived in Los Sauces, Colorado, drove 55 miles twice a day to teach in Questa, overcoming the long commute and treacherous weather conditions. His dedication to his students was clear, and he recalls the difficulties of traveling over 100 miles a day while juggling the stresses of school politics and the demands of the job.
“I worked hard to provide for my family,” Sanchez said. “It wasn’t always easy, but I loved teaching, and I knew it was the right thing to do—to keep working in Questa and teaching these students.”
Before becoming a teacher, Sanchez served in the military, which led to his enrollment in college under the GI Bill. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education and went on to obtain his master’s degree from Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. His time in the military instilled a sense of discipline and responsibility that would serve him well in his teaching career.
While Sanchez had a brief teaching stint in Costilla, his teaching journey was mostly in Questa. He met his wife, Mary Martinez Sanchez, in 1960 at a dance in Antonito, Colorado. He was introduced by his younger brother, Archie. The two married and raised five children together: Bill (Willie) Sanchez, Theresa Sanchez, Joe Sanchez, and twins Andrew and Alfred Sanchez.
Despite the adversities he faced, including being criticized by school leadership for living across state lines in Colorado, Sanchez was determined to stay in the classroom. Many of his colleagues in Questa, including Tony “Espi” Espinoza, Ruben Cisneros, Juan Valdez, Alfonso Gonzales, and Bernie Ortega, eventually rallied around him offering support which ensured he continued his teaching career in Questa.
Sanchez was honored when he learned that many of his former students had gone on to become successful doctors, scientists, and lawyers. “That makes me feel so proud and happy knowing that. It really makes me feel honored,” he said.
Now, Sanchez lives on his ranch in Alamosa. Although half of his family lives in Alamosa, he’s considering staying with his son Joe and daughter-in-law Brenda in Denver. He enjoys helping his granddaughter with her math homework and cherishes the time he spends with family.
Willie Sanchez’s impact on the community and his students continues to resonate. His story is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to teach, especially in the face of adversity. Though he has retired, his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched during his years in Questa.
