Queen Creek Unified welcomes 130 new teachers

As the 2025-26 school year gets underway, the Queen Creek Unified School District has welcomed more than 130 new teachers, including both seasoned educators and those just beginning their careers.

Allyson Miller, who brings 13 years of experience to her role, is teaching K-2 specialized programs at Frances Brandon-Pickett Elementary.

“I’m excited to get to work with the (special education) team at Pickett. Our principal is amazing, and the school environment is so welcoming,” Miller stated in a QCUSD press release. “I’m just excited for the new adventure.”

Miller shared that she was especially motivated to join QCUSD because her own child attends school in the district.

“What drew me was I’ve had a child who’s been in the district, so I’ve seen how amazing the district is and how they support kids and meet them where they are. I really wanted to be a part of that team and get to experience that,” Miller sated in the release.

At Mountain Trail Academy, new teacher Ariana Alford is eager to help establish the school from the ground up.

 “I am most excited about opening a brand-new school in Queen Creek. It’s something that not many teachers are able to do, so I’m super excited for the opportunity,” Alford stated in the release. “I was attracted to QCUSD mainly for their innovative teaching practices, but also it’s such a growing district that I’m super excited to grow with.”

Mountain Trail Academy is the district’s newest elementary school. The school, located in Mesa, opened its doors to students on July 21.

Eastmark High School welcomes Glen Ellis, the new head boys’ basketball coach and physical education teacher. Ellis looks forward to making an impact both in the gym and in the classroom.

“I hope to inspire perseverance, that students persevere when things get tough,” he stated in the release. “This is also a great new area in Arizona. I’m excited about the growth.”