Lufkin, TX – Carla Owen has taken on the new role of Family Engagement Specialist for Lufkin Independent School District’s 21st Century Texas ACE program.
Owen is a graduate of The University of Texas at San Antonio and has a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in General Education, specializing in Early Childhood through 5th grade. Additionally, she is a Certified Promotor of Health with Texas Health and Human Services. Carla is a Lufkin High School alumna, and has always aspired to serve her community.
Mrs. Owen began her career as a Community Partner, working with East Texas Alliance of Hope, at primary and elementary campuses in the afterschool program. She became an active parent on the Family Advisory Board, a parent ambassador at Anderson Elementary, and later a substitute teacher for Lufkin ISD. Carla is dedicated to community involvement, serving from hands-on work to sponsorships. In this role, she plans to empower children and encourage family involvement by forming meaningful connections through the ACE and Parent University programs. Owen said one goal is, “connecting our community with the resources they need to succeed.” Carla went on to say that she, “aims to strengthen community ties and build upon the existing foundation the previous Family Engagement Specialist, Tamara Anguiano, established.”
Mary Gail McCarty, 21st Century – Texas ACE Program Director, had this to say about the hire, “We are thrilled to welcome Carla Owen as our new Family Engagement Specialist. Her experience, deep knowledge of community resources, and the valuable perspective of being a 21st Century Texas ACE parent will be invaluable in identifying the needs of our families and fostering strong, supportive relationships within our community. Carla’s active involvement on the 21st Century Family Advisory Committee and her achievement as the recent valedictorian of our Parent University further highlight her dedication and expertise. I am looking forward to working with Carla and am confident that her innovative approach and commitment will greatly enhance our efforts to engage and support our families of Lufkin ISD.”
“I am honored and excited to begin my new role, and committed to the success of Lufkin ISD’s 21st Century Texas ACE program,” Owen said. She went on to invite parents, guardians, and families to join and participate, promising that they will feel empowered as individuals and parents. “I would also like to encourage our community organizations to participate in our program. Together we can continue to invest in our children.”
Carla is married to Rusty Owen, Director of Maintenance at Crown Colony Country Club, and has two young children, William and Luna. Carla shared that the family is committed to community service, whether through their church, school or just trying to help anyone in need, as best as they can.
Carla Owen may be reached at 936-634-0058, or by email at cgowen@lufkinisd.org.