As Arlington ISD marks Hispanic Heritage Month, the district shines a spotlight on one of its longtime educators. Elizabeth Huebner, the principal of Kooken Educational Center—the only all‑pre‑K school in the district—spoke about her Cuban‑American background and what it means to serve the community’s youngest families.
Three decades of dedication to Arlington schools
Huebner is entering her 30th year with Arlington ISD. Over the course of three decades she has held a variety of roles, beginning as a classroom teacher, then moving on to instructional coach, academic dean, associate principal, and finally assuming the helm of Kooken five years ago. In each position she has emphasized the importance of “serving our community,” a phrase she repeats when describing her daily work.
A proud Cuban‑American voice
“Hispanic Heritage Month is very near to my heart as a proud Cuban American,” Huebner said. She is the first generation in her family born and raised in the United States—Texas, specifically. Her parents worked tirelessly so that she and her brother could pursue the American dream, instilling in them a love for their Cuban heritage and a deep appreciation for the liberties that allow families to thrive.
Family traditions and favorite foods
When asked how she celebrates the month, Huebner explained that she spends time with the small family she has built here in the United States while staying connected with relatives still in Cuba. She highlighted two dishes that hold special meaning for her family: paella, a legacy of their paternal Spanish‑Cuban lineage, and lechón—roast pork served with plantains and a black‑bean‑and‑rice side dish that appears on the table during December holidays.
Values she hopes to pass to the next generation
Huebner’s message to the children and families she serves is rooted in the pillars that have guided her own life: diligence, hard work, family, faith, and staying true to one’s values. “With those foundations, anything is possible,” she affirmed, urging the next generation to pursue their dreams with confidence and integrity.
Impact on the Kooken community
Under Huebner’s leadership, Kooken Educational Center has become a welcoming gateway for families entering the district. She describes the school’s students as “Koalas,” a nickname that reflects the nurturing environment she strives to create. By celebrating her heritage openly, Huebner models cultural pride and reinforces the district’s commitment to honoring the diverse backgrounds of its students.
Arlington ISD continues to recognize the contributions of its staff during Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting stories like Huebner’s to remind the community that education is not only about academics but also about preserving the rich tapestry of cultures that shape Texas.
Original reporting: Arlington ISD District News — read the source article.
