Claudio Ramon Sanchez

Born on October 11, 1949, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Claudio was the son of Maximiliano Cabral and Paulina Sánchez, and the brother of Ernesto, Luis, and María Luisa.

A gifted student and talented athlete, he attended the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo on scholarship, earning a degree in Electromechanical Engineering while also playing for the Selección Nacional, the Dominican Republic’s national soccer team, which competes in regional and FIFA competitions.

At age 30, Claudio made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States in search of a better life. He worked as a social worker for the Department of Children and Families, supporting local families in need. He then returned to school to earn his teaching certificate, ultimately finding what he called his “dream job”: educating children.

Claudio dedicated more than two decades to Miami-Dade County Public Schools, teaching at William Jennings Bryan Elementary and Benjamin Franklin K-8 Center. Over the years he taught kindergarten through fifth grade, remembered by colleagues and students alike for his dedication, patience, and commitment to learning.

Beyond the classroom, Claudio believed deeply in public service. At age 59, he ran for North Miami City Council, determined to advocate for quality education and ensure that local government truly represented and defended the rights of its citizens.

He lived in North Miami for over 32 years.

He is survived by his loving wife Bessy and his seven children: Claudio Alberto, Claudette, Claudio Iván, Allan, Christian, Claudia, and Paulina.

His family will always remember him as devoted, generous, and loving—a man full of life and compassion who always wanted the best for others and never hesitated to help those in need.