Benjamin Huwel

Frequently found patrolling the halls, Benjamin [Ben] Huwel is not just a former science teacher, but one of our assistant principals, continuing his commitment to making a positive impact on students and staff alike. With over a decade of teaching experience, Huwel’s expertise spans Integrated Physics and Chemistry, Chemistry, Advanced Chemistry, and Physics.

Huwel admits that education wasn’t always his first choice. 

“I originally took the job as a backup to aspirations of starting my gym focused on youth athletics,” Huwel said. 

Although fitness and helping others were initially his goals, he found himself drawn to teaching as a way to make a lasting difference. He shows deep empathy for his students. 

“I enjoy watching our students grow and mature into promising young adults and offering them any assistance or guidance they may need,” Huwel said. 

After 12 years of teaching, Huwel transitioned into the role of assistant principal. Although his responsibilities have shifted, his mission to guide students remains the same. In his new role, he continues to focus on fostering a supportive and respectful school environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive. He still carries the lessons learned from his time in the classroom while being an assistant principal and dealing with students. As assistant principal, Huwel endeavors to ensure that his students and colleagues are treated with the same care and understanding that defined his teaching philosophy.

During his years as a science teacher, Mr. Huwel earned a reputation for creating a classroom where students had a voice in their learning. He believes this is essential for fostering engagement. 

“Allowing students to have a voice in the curriculum decision-making generates interest and effective student buy-in,” Huwel said. 

He’s also quick to point out that science, in particular, isn’t about perfection but about exploration.

“I am by far not an expert in anything,” Huwel said.  “I always appreciated the varying viewpoints and perspectives of my students.” 

His classroom, whether in the role of teacher or administrator, fosters a space where learning is a process, and mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth. 

“Science is not perfect but always strives to answer the unknown through scientific methodologies,” Huwel said. 

Though Huwel’s role has shifted, he still values his relationships with students and staff. His approach to leadership is rooted in respect. ““I try to treat the students with respect, kindness, care and for a lack of better word, love, and hope that is reciprocated by the students back into the culture,” Huwel said. 

Over the years, he’s also learned invaluable lessons from his students. 

“I’ve learned so much from my students which has made me a better human being,” Huwel said. 

His acknowledgment of his growth is a testament to his belief that everyone–students and teachers alike–can continue to learn and improve.

When it comes to leaving a legacy, Huwel doesn't seek recognition. 

“I do not care if anyone speaks about me or remembers me once I leave,” he says. However, he does hope his time at Flour Bluff has contributed to a positive change. 

“I would like to think that at some point I will have made the high school better in terms of progressing with a changing society,” he reflects.

He focuses on making the school a place where students are not only academically challenged but also supported emotionally and socially. 

“It contributes more than I originally thought,” he admits.

Outside of his professional life,  Huwel is a devoted family man. He has been married to his wife, Brandy, for over 20 years, and they share two daughters.

“We have two adult daughters who are at the center of our universe,” Huwel said. 

Huwel enjoys working out with his wife. Now that it is just them in the home, they have also begun traveling together. 

“Brandy and I enjoy working out together and have just started traveling the globe this past year,” Huwel said.

At home, Huwel and his wife currently care for five rescue cats and often foster animals from Edgar and Ivy’s Sanctuary. 

“We frequently take in bottle feeders from Edgar and Ivy’s sanctuary to help grow those little babies,” Huwel shares, showcasing his love for animals and his generous spirit.

Huwel’s approach to both life and teaching is influenced by a stoic mindset, especially the Latin phrase Memento Mori. 

“Remember that death is certain, your time in this life is limited and to make the most out of it as you can,” Huwel reflects.

He pairs this with Memento Vivere, “Remember to live,” which encourages him to embrace life fully, even in the face of inevitable mortality. 

“It is the duality of knowing you will die, but because of that you should live life to the fullest,” Mr. Huwel adds.

Although Huwel is no longer in the classroom, his impact at Flour Bluff High School is far from over. Whether as a teacher or as an assistant principal, his unwavering commitment to student growth and school culture remains at the forefront of everything he does. As he looks to the future, his focus continues to be on supporting students and staff in any way possible.

“I enjoy supporting our students in any way possible and do not rank any of the various activities over any other; we have great kids here who are destined for amazing futures,” he says.