
Every school year begins with possibility, and at Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD), that journey starts by welcoming the educators who will inspire, encourage, and shape the lives of our students.
While each new teacher brings a different story, they all share a common purpose: making a difference.
Lindsey Scharich, a new fifth-grade teacher at Mountain Trail Academy, shared that she chose QCUSD for its emphasis on the family. “I chose Queen Creek because I wanted my family to be in a district where we could all grow together,” she shared
Others were drawn to the district’s reputation for excellence. Sixth-grade math and science teacher Marci Hines said she was looking for “a school district with a great reputation,” while Crismon High School Dean Rob Sehl was excited to join one of Arizona’s fastest-growing school districts and become part of a team committed to student success.
For first-year kindergarten teacher Peyton Fitch, QCUSD already felt like home. Inspired by her mother’s positive experience working in the district, she said, “I’ve seen the community she has here, and I’m really excited to experience that culture as well.”
That sense of community is one of QCUSD’s greatest strengths. With one of the highest teacher retention rates in Arizona, our district provides students with consistency, stability, and experienced educators who are committed to building meaningful relationships year after year.
Our newest teachers are joining a team of highly qualified, certified professionals who believe every student deserves an exceptional education in a supportive learning environment.
“I’m looking forward to building relationships with my students and my colleagues,” Peyton said.
School counselor Gayla Sanchez shared that she is excited “to get to know not only the people I’ll be working with, but also our students and the parents who will be joining our school.”
For Rachel Fosbender, who will teach seventh-grade English at Crismon High School, the anticipation is simple. “I love how funny they are and that they’re always willing to try new things.”
Those relationships are the foundation of every successful school year. Before the first lesson is taught or the first assignment is given, our teachers are already preparing to create classrooms where students feel welcomed, challenged, and inspired to grow.
As another school year begins, QCUSD is proud to welcome these talented educators into our district family. Their passion, dedication, and commitment to students will help shape the future of our schools and our community.

