Betty Robert Best is an educator who loves children beyond all understanding. Throughout her 30-year educational career, the last 21 in Alief, Betty has touched the lives of thousands of students from Louisiana to Illinois to Texas. She has earned the reputation of a true child's advocate. 

Born in Kilgore, Texas, to Leo and Christine Robert on November 26, 1939, Betty grew up in Louisiana and attended school there. She began her teaching career in 1961 as an elementary teacher in Louisiana. She later moved to Illinois and taught in Chicago. 

Betty has proven to be a valuable asset to the Alief ISD education system since coming here in 1969. She first accepted a teaching position at Alief Elementary School (now called Youens Elementary) and became its principal three years later. When Kennedy Elementary opened in 1975, Betty was there to greet students in staff. 

In 1981, Betty took a leave of absence to return to the classroom as a student. She studied under the tutelage of Dr. Madeline Hunter at UCLA's University of Elementary School in California. Upon returning to Alief, Betty was promoted to Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Instruction. In the fall of 1990, Betty took over her position as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Staff Development. 

Betty spent many weekends training teachers across the state. Betty's dedication to the teaching profession resulted in her being named Texas Elementary Educator of the Year for the 1984-1985 school year. 

It is with great pride and honor that the Alief ISD Board of Trustees named the district's 18th elementary school after Betty Roberts Best. She truly represents the very BEST in elementary education.