Celebrating 100 Years of MUSD: Tammy Foster, MUSD Alumna and 30 Year MHS Teacher
Celebrating 100 Years of MUSD: Tammy Foster, MUSD Alumna and 30 Year MHS Teacher
Tammy Foster, Alumna & 30-Year MHS Teacher*
- Marana Junior High: 1973-1975
- Marana High School: 1975-1979
- Teacher at Marana High School 1984-1993 and 1997-2018
I became part of the Marana Unified School District as a student when my family moved here in 1973. I attended Marana Junior High School from 1973 to 1975 and Marana High School from 1975 to 1979. What I didn’t know then was that Marana would become not just my school district, but my lifelong home. I later returned to Marana High School as a teacher, working from 1984 to 1993 and again from 1997 to 2018.
Original Marana Junior High School (ca. 1970s)
As a student, I have so many fond memories, attending games, celebrations, and carnivals that brought the whole community together. My most cherished moment, though, was graduation, when my father (Dr. Scott Foster) read my name aloud. That moment has stayed with me all these years.
As a teacher, my favorite memories came from watching my students learn. There was nothing better than seeing their faces light up when something finally clicked, when they had that spark of understanding, finished an assignment they were proud of, or realized they were capable of more than they thought.
I loved my English classes as a student, especially those taught by Mrs. Ehmann, Mrs. Vaughn, Mrs. Mann, Mrs. Merrill, and Ms. Plamann. I also enjoyed my Business classes with Mrs. Lantych and Mrs. Carpenter. English gave me the chance to read, write, and receive feedback that showed me I had real ability. Business classes taught me practical skills and were led by teachers who genuinely cared. Later, as a teacher myself, I was able to bring both English and Business into my own classroom and put those lessons to use.
Several educators had a lasting influence on my life. Mrs. Yvonne Merrill was especially impactful when I began teaching English, her classroom became a template for my own lessons and organization. Mrs. Lantych became a mentor and friend after I graduated. The greatest influence in my life, though, was my dad, who served as a principal. His leadership and example shaped who I am both personally and professionally.
Dr Scott Foster with His Children
One of the most important lessons I learned in Marana Schools was the value of family, friends, and community. I came to Marana in seventh grade, and it quickly became part of who I am. More than 50 years later, after working in and alongside Marana Schools, that sense of belonging has never left.
Extracurriculars played a big role in my experience. I was one of the first students recruited as a flag member by band director Neil Grissom, which later led me to perform as a University of Arizona Pride of Arizona flag member for three years. I still enjoy watching auxiliary groups perform today, and when I see the same level of precision emphasized, it still takes my breath away.
MUSD prepared me for life after graduation by giving me the foundation to return as an educator. I spent 30 years teaching at Marana High School, using what I learned as a student to shape my own classroom.
I also remember cherished traditions like the live manger scene before Christmas concerts and the spring carnival, both true community events. While Marana has grown from open fields and a single stretch of schools on Grier Road into a much larger district, what makes MUSD special and hasn’t changed is the people and the strong sense of community. That legacy continues, and I’m proud to have been part of it for so many years.
*Information submitted by Tammy Foster and written by MUSD Office of Public Relations.
SHARE YOUR STORY
As we count down to Marana Schools 100-Year Celebration on April 25, we invite alumni, teachers, and staff from over the years to share their stories! Published by the MUSD Office of Public Relations, you’ll have the opportunity to be highlighted as we celebrate a century of memories, milestones, and impact.
About Marana Schools 100-Year Centennial Celebration
The Marana Unified School District is proud to celebrate 100 Years of Marana Schools and excellence in education! Join us for an unforgettable community celebration on Saturday, April 25, 2026, honoring a century of learning, educational achievements and milestones, and the wonderful Marana community spirit! We have a daytime free family and community event at Marana High School and an adults-only ticketed dinner at Marana Pumpkin Patch. You won't want to miss out!