Inside MUSD

Inside MUSD is back for Season 4! In our first episode, MUSD CFO Jacob Harmon joins us for a straightforward look at Proposition 416, the district’s Maintenance & Operations Override.

Mr. Harmon breaks down what the override funds, how it impacts MUSD schools and students, what happens if it is not renewed, and what voters need to know before Election Day.

In this episode of 347 Listen & Learn, Coordinator of Literacy Initiatives Tina Leach shares practical ways families can support reading at home and help children grow into confident readers. From building simple daily routines to making reading fun and engaging, Tina offers tips parents can use right away, whether their child is just beginning to read or already loves books. Tune in for an encouraging conversation filled with strategies to help literacy thrive beyond the classroom.

In this episode of 347 Listen & Learn, Secondary Instructional Coach Staci Hayes walks listeners through the essentials of Arizona State Testing.

What is state testing, and why is it important for students and schools? Ms. Hayes breaks it down in a clear, parent-friendly way, while also sharing practical tips to help students feel prepared and confident during testing season.

Whether you're a parent, guardian, or educator, this episode offers valuable insight and simple strategies you can use right away to support student success.

🎧 Listen in and learn how to make testing season a positive experience for your student.

In this episode of 347 Listen & Learn, Montana Roberts, host of Inside MUSD, steps in as a guest host to lead the conversation. She sits down with Nicole Cantrell, Director of Education Technology, to unpack one of the biggest topics in education today: artificial intelligence in the classroom.

Together, they explore what AI actually looks like in schools, how teachers are using it to enhance learning (not replace it), and the guardrails in place to ensure student safety and academic integrity. Nicole shares practical examples, clears up common misconceptions, and discusses how MUSD is preparing students to use emerging technology responsibly and creatively.

Whether you’re a parent curious about AI, an educator navigating new tools, or simply interested in the future of learning, this episode offers clarity, context, and a thoughtful look at the future of learning in MUSD.

Inside MUSD is back! In our first episode of the year, we take an early look at Alma Farrell Innovation Academy, the newest K–8 school opening in July 2026. Principal Elizabeth Allison shares the vision behind the school, including the meaning of its name, a collaborative team teaching model, work-based learning, and a multi-age house and academy structure designed to prepare students for the future. 

New 347 Listen & Learn episode! College & Career Counselors Parisa Seymour and Allie Krigbaum break down FAFSA, what families need to know, and how it opens doors to financial aid. Don’t miss it! 

When most people think of school counseling, they picture advisors helping students with class schedules or college applications. But school counseling is just one part of a much larger picture. In this episode, we take a closer look at the comprehensive school mental health system—a multi-tiered framework designed to promote well-being, address mental health needs, and foster a positive school climate for both students and staff.

We’ll explore the evolving role of school counselors as vital members of the leadership team, working in collaboration with administrators to support not only academic progress but also social and emotional growth. From elementary school, where counselors guide students in building foundational social skills, to middle school, where academics and mental health support go hand in hand, to high school, where the focus shifts toward graduation, advocacy, and career readiness—counselors are there every step of the way.

This conversation highlights the full scope of what school counseling and comprehensive mental health systems mean today, and why they are essential for student success.

In this episode of Inside MUSD's 347 Listen & Learn, we take a deep dive into the critical topics of safety, security, and mental health in our schools. From proactive security measures to mental health resources, we explore how Maricopa Unified School District is working to create a safe and supportive environment for students and staff. Join us as we sit down with Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services Tracey Pastor, and Community Project Manager Nawal Apura, to discuss the strategies in place to ensure both physical safety and emotional well-being. Tune in to learn how MUSD is fostering a culture where students can thrive—both academically and personally. 

In this episode of Inside MUSD, we sit down with Sergio Pulido, Maricopa Unified School District’s Director of Transportation. Starting his journey as a bus aide, Sergio has worked his way up to become a key leader in our district. Join us as he shares his inspiring story of growth, professional development, and dedication to MUSD.

Sergio also highlights an exciting opportunity—the upcoming Transportation Job Fair. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at how Sergio and his team keep our district moving forward!

🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and on the MUSD website.