The William “Buster” & Frances R. Gilbreth Future Educator Scholarship

A Shared Passion for Education

William “Buster” and Frances Ruth Gilbreth left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Cuero, Texas. Their journey began in vastly different corners of the state—Buster in the rural setting of Smiley, Texas, and Frances amidst the industrial bustle of Port Arthur. Despite their diverse backgrounds, both shared a deep-seated passion for education instilled by inspirational mentors throughout their lives.

A Lifelong Commitment

After crossing paths at Southwest Texas Teachers College, now known as Texas State University, Buster and Frances embarked on a lifelong journey together. Their commitment to education led them to teaching and coaching positions in various Texas towns, with fate eventually leading them to Cuero High School in 1969. Here, they found not only professional fulfillment but also a warm community to call home.

Leaving an Enduring Impact

Throughout their tenure at Cuero, Buster's leadership as head coach and athletic director, along with Frances's dedication as a fifth-grade teacher at Hunt Elementary, left an enduring impact. Their legacy extended far beyond the classroom and football field—they became integral parts of the Cuero Gobbler community, cherishing their time spent raising their three daughters and fostering connections with students and neighbors alike.

Though their journey eventually led them beyond Cuero, their dedication to education never wavered. In their retirement, they continued to explore the world, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning they imparted to their students.

Empowering Future Educators

Frances's passing in November 2016 and Buster's in August 2020 marked the end of their earthly journey, but their legacy continued. As memorial gifts flowed in, the Gilbreth daughters were deeply touched by the profound impact their parents had in Cuero. The generous donations made to the Cuero ISD Education Foundation, in tribute and remembrance of Buster and Frances, prompted the creation of the William “Buster” and Frances R. Gilbreth Future Educator Scholarship. This scholarship is dedicated to supporting Cuero ISD teachers who have already earned a Bachelor’s degree and are now pursuing a Master’s Degree in education, embodying the exemplary qualities demonstrated by Buster and Frances—such as a strong work ethic and unwavering dedication to both school and community. The Gilbreth family envisions this scholarship as a means to equip and inspire all Cuero teachers to become transformative educators, leaving a profound impact on future generations of students, echoing the enduring influence of Buster and Frances.

This scholarship embodies the Gilbreth family's hope of inspiring a new generation of legendary educators in Cuero. Through this scholarship, Buster and Frances's legacy will continue to shape the lives of students and educators for generations to come.

About the Cuero ISD Education Foundation

The Cuero ISD Education Foundation, Inc., founded in 2002 as a 501(c)(3) organization, passionately advocates for educational excellence. Committed to generating and distributing financial resources beyond traditional school funding, the foundation has become a cornerstone for empowering students and educators alike.