Tom Carmichael Named 2026 MUSD Teacher of the Year!
Tom Carmichael Named 2026 MUSD Teacher of the Year!
Tom Carmichael, Band and Choir Teacher at Picture Rocks Elementary School, has been named the Marana Unified School District 2026 Teacher of the Year. A dedicated educator with 19 years of service in MUSD, who is known for his creativity, kindness, and extraordinary dedication to students. Mr. Carmichael embodies the very best of teaching and the powerful role the arts play in building community.
Each day, Tom greets students at his classroom door strumming a banjo or tapping a drum, instantly filling the space with excitement and anticipation. His classroom is alive with music, curiosity, and joy. “Tom captures the hearts of most students, especially those others struggle to reach,” shared in his nomination.
Tom teaches far more than singing, instruments, and reading music. He challenges students to think critically about musical pieces and to perform with confidence, often through original songs and full musicals he personally composes. His passion for music education extends well beyond his own classroom. Tom regularly contributes to district PLCs, co-creating musicals that are performed across several Marana schools. He also wrote the Picture Rocks Elementary School song, proudly performed at every assembly.
His dedication is remarkable. Tom designs and builds elaborate sets for performances, volunteers to teach guided reading groups during his planning hour after learning the skill from his wife, a reading specialist, and stays after school to lead bell choir rehearsals. On weekends, he repairs students’ instruments so families don’t have to pay out of pocket, quiet acts of service that speak volumes about his character. Colleagues appreciate his kindness as well. “Tom took the time to teach me basic drums so I could participate in the school holiday event. That made my entire year!” said one nominee.
His impact spans generations. Former students frequently approach him after performances to share how he inspired their love of music, sometimes joined by parents who were once his students themselves. Despite this lasting influence, Tom remains humble and grateful, always beginning performances by thanking the district, administrators, maintenance staff, parents, teachers, and his wife for supporting the arts.
Tom Carmichael is an extraordinary educator whose influence will continue to resonate throughout Picture Rocks Elementary School and the Marana Unified School District for years to come.
Congratulations, Mr. Carmichael!