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National Gold Star School
Gladden Farms Elementary has been named a 2026 National Gold Star School by the NAESP, honoring schools that demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and student success.
Equitable Support for Students
At Gladden, we believe each child can succeed. In order to accomplish this, we offer various programs that meet students at their academic and behavioral level.
Free Full-day Kindergarten
Now enrolling for free full-day kindergarten offering a strong focus on cognitive, social, and emotional learning development.
Collaborative Learning
Aligned with the District’s Gradual Release of Responsibility (GRR) instructional model, Gladden Farms provides learning environments that engage students in collaborative and productive work.
Buddy Classes
Buddy classes connect younger students with older Bobcats on campus, and students meet regularly, engaging in fun activities and games. Having older and younger students interact in positive ways helps older students become leaders and encourages young students to model positive behaviors.
News & Events
Bobcat News
![NAESPLogo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1778610069/maranausdorg/zqu4y1wzgqai4gsinhaw/NAESPLogo.png","width":185}])
From July 12–15, I had the privilege of representing Gladden Farms Elementary at the NAESP Conference in Orlando, Florida, where our Instructional Coach, Beth DeWeerdt, and I proudly accepted the National Gold Star School Award on behalf of our entire Bobcat community.
This honor reflects the dedication of our outstanding staff, hardworking students, supportive families, and valued community partners. Thank you for helping make Gladden Farms a place where students thrive and excellence is celebrated. This award truly belongs to all of us!
![Teacher in front of elementary school class]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1785434719/maranausdorg/srg3czjrupsmm848njgi/Now_HIring_Student_Teacher_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1785434719/maranausdorg/srg3czjrupsmm848njgi/Now_HIring_Student_Teacher_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1785434719/maranausdorg/srg3czjrupsmm848njgi/Now_HIring_Student_Teacher_SQ.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1785434719/maranausdorg/srg3czjrupsmm848njgi/Now_HIring_Student_Teacher_SQ.jpg","width":1000}])
Marana Unified is seeking passionate teachers! If you have a bachelor's degree, explore teaching opportunities through emergency certification or post-bachelor's programs and inspire the next generation.
![NewTeacherWelcome_SQ]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1784675521/maranausdorg/dn14u4vtgew0xxekih6d/NewTeacherWelcome_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1784675521/maranausdorg/dn14u4vtgew0xxekih6d/NewTeacherWelcome_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1784675521/maranausdorg/dn14u4vtgew0xxekih6d/NewTeacherWelcome_SQ.jpg","width":800}])
Marana Unified School District Welcomes New Teachers for the 2026–2027 School Year!
![Smiling young girl holds school lunch tray]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1785191989/maranausdorg/e14xforoudm3pphj4y7c/School_Lunch_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1785191989/maranausdorg/e14xforoudm3pphj4y7c/School_Lunch_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1785191989/maranausdorg/e14xforoudm3pphj4y7c/School_Lunch_SQ.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1785191989/maranausdorg/e14xforoudm3pphj4y7c/School_Lunch_SQ.jpg","width":1000}])
Arizona's new Healthy Schools Act changes laws governing food in schools, to help kids stay healthy. Schools participating in federal meal programs cannot serve or sell foods with banned ingredients. Here is what families need to know.
![Inside Seats Pictured for MUSD New Charter Buses]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1785175819/maranausdorg/xs5l20aqoyubhejwycs1/2026_MUSD_Charter_School_Bus_Inside_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1785175819/maranausdorg/xs5l20aqoyubhejwycs1/2026_MUSD_Charter_School_Bus_Inside_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1785175819/maranausdorg/xs5l20aqoyubhejwycs1/2026_MUSD_Charter_School_Bus_Inside_SQ.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1785175819/maranausdorg/xs5l20aqoyubhejwycs1/2026_MUSD_Charter_School_Bus_Inside_SQ.jpg","width":1000}])
MUSD has expanded its transportation fleet with the addition of four new charter buses, providing students and student athletes with safe, climate-controlled, and convenient travel for far-away athletic competitions, field trips, and other school-sponsored activities.
![2026 AZ Daily Star - Best of Awards Logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1785186883/maranausdorg/frgrcqxbhrg9f35g8nzw/2026_AZDS_BestOf_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1785186883/maranausdorg/frgrcqxbhrg9f35g8nzw/2026_AZDS_BestOf_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1785186883/maranausdorg/frgrcqxbhrg9f35g8nzw/2026_AZDS_BestOf_SQ.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1785186883/maranausdorg/frgrcqxbhrg9f35g8nzw/2026_AZDS_BestOf_SQ.jpg","width":1000}])
Marana Unified is once again nominated for Best Place to Work in the Arizona Daily Star Readers' Choice Awards. Cast your vote by August 9!
![Mrs. Naya Persaud, Principal, and Beth DeWeerdt, with other, pictured in formal dress at Gold Star Award Ceremony]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1784927759/maranausdorg/hkmiqwki7nihhmmcfukt/GFE_Gold_Star_Ceremony_SQ.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1784927759/maranausdorg/hkmiqwki7nihhmmcfukt/GFE_Gold_Star_Ceremony_SQ.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1784927759/maranausdorg/hkmiqwki7nihhmmcfukt/GFE_Gold_Star_Ceremony_SQ.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1784927759/maranausdorg/hkmiqwki7nihhmmcfukt/GFE_Gold_Star_Ceremony_SQ.jpg","width":1000}])
Principal Mrs. Naya Persaud accepted the prestigious National Gold Star School Award at the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Conference in Orlando, FL.
![Student Typing on Chromebook_SQ]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1765317578/maranausdorg/whwjheqwj8ssml4motth/Chromebook_Break_1200x630_SQ.webp","width":2000}])
Insurance is available for Chromebooks for $30 annually. Students receiving Free & Reduced Price meals qualify for an insurance waiver but families must sign up with their home schools.
![Emergency Response Worker]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1751051048/maranausdorg/a7fx4mfjov3e1ofrridy/EMERGENCY_SERVICES_94532606_XL_300x300-cropped.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1751051048/maranausdorg/a7fx4mfjov3e1ofrridy/EMERGENCY_SERVICES_94532606_XL_300x300-cropped.jpg","width":300}])
As we begin a new school year, we remind our families of the steps MUSD takes to keep everyone informed and safe during crisis situations. From safety alerts to real-time updates, here’s what you can expect if a situation impacts one of our schools.
![SpeakUp Safety Tip Line]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1749762210/maranausdorg/s3xkycv8xp9ducaxo7xg/SpeakUp_Phone_Blur_300x300.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1749762210/maranausdorg/s3xkycv8xp9ducaxo7xg/SpeakUp_Phone_Blur_300x300.png","width":300}])
New to school? MUSD’s SpeakUp Safety Tip Line allows anyone to text or call 24/7 to report threats to student safety and well-being: (520) 518-4181.
Upcoming Events
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Student and Family Support Services 7651 Oldfather Dr. Tucson, Az. 85741 - Room P9
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Student and Family Support Services 7651 Oldfather Dr. Tucson, Az. 85741 - Room P9
Ed Honea Marana Municipal Complex, Council Chambers, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive Marana, AZ 85653
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Gladden Farms Elementary
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Gladden Farms Elementary
Ed Honea Marana Municipal Complex, Council Chambers, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive Marana, AZ 85653
all day
SCHOOLS CLOSED
all day
Shortened Day Elementary Students
Highlights
Gladden Farms Elementary is a preK-6 school offering an inspiring and enriching Computer Science immersion academic experience, and an innovative state of the art learning environment.
![Photo Needed]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1783968468/maranausdorg/ofacftafywg2oruavijd/LetterA-800x716.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1783968468/maranausdorg/ofacftafywg2oruavijd/LetterA-800x716.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1783968468/maranausdorg/ofacftafywg2oruavijd/LetterA-800x716.jpg","width":800}])
The Arizona Department of Education has awarded Gladden Farms Elementary an “A” Letter grade, the highest ranking for school performance.
![Students in library]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1783968575/maranausdorg/mm03cnnufs5lweukbwm7/PBIS_800x716.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1783968575/maranausdorg/mm03cnnufs5lweukbwm7/PBIS_800x716.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1783968575/maranausdorg/mm03cnnufs5lweukbwm7/PBIS_800x716.jpg","width":800}])
Gladden Farms uses Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) to teach clear expectations, celebrate good choices, and apply consistent, fair consequences school-wide.
![Photo Needed]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1708119887/maranausdorg/tdfbvyqhylu3lxabawfv/IMG_1340-800x716.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1708119887/maranausdorg/tdfbvyqhylu3lxabawfv/IMG_1340-800x716.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1708119887/maranausdorg/tdfbvyqhylu3lxabawfv/IMG_1340-800x716.jpg","width":800}])
Collaborative partnerships allow our school to leverage family, school, and community resources to remove barriers to learning and provide essentials to families in need.
![Preschool]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1707324524/maranausdorg/eiwffyqfzxdzzjna9oqk/IMG_2459-800x716.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1707324524/maranausdorg/eiwffyqfzxdzzjna9oqk/IMG_2459-800x716.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1707324524/maranausdorg/eiwffyqfzxdzzjna9oqk/IMG_2459-800x716.jpg","width":800}])
Half & full-day programs that blend play-based learning with real school readiness, from literacy and counting to social skills and motor development. Licensed by AZ Department of Health Services and partners with Quality First program.
![HRS Level 2 Certified]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1783969057/maranausdorg/xnrjbervejt2mx870ch6/HRS_LVL_2_800x716.jpg","width":2048}])
Gladden Farms Elementary School is pleased to announce the achievement of Level 2 certification in Marzano High-Reliability Schools™. Level 2 certification means our school is ensuring effective teaching in every classroom.