Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD) proudly celebrates Crismon High School teacher Andrea Pettit, who was recently recognized as the 2025 Arizona Middle Grades Teacher of the Year. This award highlights Pettit’s dedication to students and her passion for shaping the future of education.
The award process began with Pettit’s administrators nominating her, supported by heartfelt letters from colleagues and parents. From there, a committee carefully reviewed each nomination before selecting the winners. For Pettit, the recognition is more than just an award. It reflects her love for teaching and the deep relationships she has built within the QCUSD community.
“I’ve really found my niche with the middle-grade students, so my seventh and eighth graders,” Pettit shared. “I also love teaching the high schoolers that I get to inspire to be teachers in my Ed Professions class. My love for teaching, I get to share with them. Hopefully, I inspire them to also want to teach middle-grade students.”
Pettit teaches mathematics, a subject that many students often find intimidating. Yet, she finds joy in helping them succeed. “What inspires me to connect with my students is when I see them understand the concepts that I’m teaching, and to see the moments when their hard work pays off. Teaching mathematics is not everybody’s favorite subject, so having them be excited to learn also makes me feel great.”
Now in her seventh year with QCUSD, Pettit has become an integral part of the district. Beyond the classroom, she has supported student council and countless extracurricular activities, building lasting connections with families. “I just love the people. I love the community. Staying within QCUSD has allowed me to develop deeper relationships with families and students, and I couldn’t imagine teaching anywhere else.”
When asked why families should choose QCUSD, Pettit’s answer was simple: “We have educators who care and are passionate about what they teach, and want to see your child succeed.”
To her students, Pettit leaves a powerful message: “Keep working, persevere, try harder. I know that you can do it.”