Celebrating 100 Years of MUSD: Erin Kardel, MUSD Alumni
Celebrating 100 Years of MUSD: Erin Kardel, MUSD Alumni
Erin Kardel: MUSD Alumna
- Estes Elementary
- Marana Middle
- Marana Plus (MCAT)
- MUSD Bus Driver for 11 Years
I attended Marana schools from kindergarten all the way through graduation, Estes, Marana Middle School, Marana High School, and Marana Plus (MCAT). Growing up in MUSD truly meant growing up in one community from start to finish.
After graduating, I stayed connected in a different way. I drove school buses for MUSD for 11 years, which meant I had the chance to serve students from many different schools across the district.
I recently attended my 25-year reunion, our 20-year was postponed because of COVID, and those of us who went to Estes found ourselves laughing about line dancing in elementary PE. It was so much fun, and honestly, I wish they still did that.
Science was always my favorite subject. It came naturally to me because I found it genuinely interesting. I was even a teacher’s assistant for Mrs. Perz in 8th grade, which made it even more special. But the most influential teacher in my life was my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Thompson. She was the first person outside of my home who cared for me in such a loving way. That kind of bond makes school feel safe for a child. I grew up near her and would see her occasionally as an adult, and I even attended her funeral. She was such a sweet, loving person.
One of the biggest life lessons I learned in Marana schools was to be respectful and kind. I love seeing the Ben’s Bells symbol displayed around campuses today, it reinforces that same message.
I was in choir and loved that during my senior year they started a show choir that combined singing and dancing. It was so much fun. I also remember decorating a float for the Founders’ Day parade through the DARE program in 5th grade. Officer Derfus would reward honor roll students with trips to the old Tiger Den, where R&R Pizza is now, which felt like a big deal at the time.
I probably wouldn’t have graduated without the TAPP program. Teen pregnancy isn’t something anyone plans for, but it happens, and I needed the support that program gave me to understand how important it was to earn my diploma. Neither of my parents graduated from high school, so that accomplishment meant everything.
What I miss most is the small-town feel, everyone knows everyone. Marana has grown so much. It’s nice having a grocery store five minutes away, but the traffic is definitely different!
What makes MUSD great today is still the people. From attendance clerks to principals, there are truly caring individuals who make a difference every day. And I’ll always smile remembering pizza day, cheese fries at Marana Middle, 35-cent ice cream sandwiches, and even Taco Bell at MHS. Times have changed, but the memories will always stay the same.
*Information submitted by Erin Kardel 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!