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Principal's Message

Ruben Pineda headshot

Mr. Ruben Pineda believes that all students can reach their full potential and remains committed to engaging and empowering them to take on challenges, pursue excellence, and emerge victorious. At Moreno Elementary, this vision will be realized through a school culture that fosters a growth mindset and builds student confidence in trying new things. The school will integrate subjects in meaningful, project-based ways and help students make sense of the world by connecting learning to real-life problems.

As an immigrant himself, Mr. Pineda understands firsthand the value of a supportive school community that motivates students to strive and achieve. A native of Vallehermoso, Tamaulipas, Mexico, he moved to Houston with his family at a young age. He attended John Marshall Middle School and graduated from Jefferson Davis High School, now known as Northside High School. Mr. Pineda went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Professional Writing from the University of Houston–Downtown and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Texas at Austin, becoming the first in his family to attend and graduate from college.

Mr. Pineda began his professional career at the University of Houston–Downtown as an Educational Talent Search Advising Assistant. He later entered the classroom, teaching English Language Arts in the Dual Language Program at Burbank Middle School, a program designed to meet the needs of recent arrivals from Latin American countries. He also taught ELA at Liberty High School, a school serving newly arrived immigrant students. After five years balancing both teaching roles, Mr. Pineda transitioned to campus leadership, serving as Assistant Principal at Burbank Middle School for 12 years.

Throughout his career, Mr. Pineda has been dedicated to helping students improve their academic performance, motivation, self-confidence, and pride in their work. As a bilingual educator, he remains committed to serving Houston’s diverse population with care, equity, and high expectations.

Notable Achievements:

  • HISD TIER II Excellence in Leadership Recipient (2019)

  • HAABE Teacher of the Year – Campus-Based (2010)

  • ESL Teacher of the Year – Campus-Based (2009–2010)

  • HISD North Central District Exemplary Teaching Award (2005)

  • Teacher of the Year – Campus-Based (2004–2005)