Miguel Angel Santana

Miguel Angel Santana, a beloved teacher, devoted family member, cherished friend, and courageous fighter, passed away in Orlando, Florida. Born in Puerto Rico to his loving mother, Alma Santana, Miguel lived a life filled with purpose, compassion, wisdom, humor, and resilience.

For 28 years, Miguel dedicated himself to education, teaching science and technology in the Chicago Public Schools. He shared his passion and gifts at Pullman Elementary, Pritzker Elementary, and Chase Elementary—impacting generations of students with his patience, brilliance, and heart. Though he never had children of his own, his students were truly his kids. He nurtured not only their intellect but also their self-worth and character.

Miguel came from a family of proud educators and carried that legacy with quiet pride. He is survived by his brother, Gabriel Santana; his sister, Alma Betsy Santana; and his beloved nieces and nephews: Jazelyn Viruet, Jaileen Perez, Koralys Santana, Gabriel Y. Santana, and Alma Cardoso—all of whom will carry his love, wisdom, and spirit forward.

Miguel was deeply loved by his students—not just for what he taught, but for who he was. They described him as kind, full of wisdom, and always encouraging. He taught life lessons that extended far beyond academics: that today’s choices shape tomorrow’s future… that being cool and being smart are not mutually exclusive… and that every student is special, unique, and worthy of love and respect.

Known for his incredible sense of humor, Miguel loved to make people laugh. Whether with family, his many friend groups who became like family, or his students, he brought light and joy to every space he entered. One unforgettable moment that captured his playful spirit and deep dedication occurred during a McTeacher’s Night fundraiser hosted by Chase Elementary at a local McDonald’s. Miguel had a blast dancing around the restaurant dressed in a giant pie costume, assisted by four other teachers selling hot apple pies to raise money for the school. His silliness was unmatched—and so was his willingness to go the extra mile for his students and his school community.

Even through his battle with cancer, Miguel remained a fighter—meeting every challenge with courage and grace. He defied the odds with strength and perseverance, never letting illness overshadow his warmth or dim his spirit.

Miguel Angel Santana will be remembered for his dedication to teaching, the laughter he shared, the wisdom he gave, and the love he poured into everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched—in and far beyond the classroom.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.