Carrillo K-5 Magnet School

Celina is a 25-year employee of Tucson Unified, who has spent the last 11 years at Carrillo K-5 Communication and Creative Arts Magnet School.

Although she previously worked in different positions throughout elementary grades, she has solely worked in kindergarten while at Carrillo. She also mentors teachers at her site and student teachers from the University of Arizona. 

Celina loves working with the littles because they keep her on her toes and loves being part of their “first times.”  

The veteran teacher also makes it a point to incorporate current events in the classroom, so students can learn through what they are seeing in their daily lives. Celina said it can lead to some great moments. 

“It’s just amazing to see their little light bulbs turn on, that’s the best part,” Celina said. “That’s the best part of the whole day.” 

Olsen is one of the newest additions to Carrillo. After previously starting as a teacher’s assistant at the downtown school last year, she is in her first year as a teacher. She received her master's from Northern Arizona University, where she completed a teacher mentor program. 

That was how she was first introduced, but from the moment she walked into Carrillo for her TA position, she knew this school was the only one she wanted to work at. She told her NAU advisor that she wanted to get a job at Carrillo. 

Since then, she has only fallen deeper in love with the school. 

“The moment I stepped into this building, I just fell in love,” Olsen said. “It’s so magical. It’s such a special place. It’s historic. It’s beautiful. There’s a history, there’s culture, there’s community.” 

Back in 2000, Myrna was referred to an open position from a good friend who worked at Carrillo. She ended up getting that open job and has been at the downtown school since. 

Throughout her 24 years at Carrillo, Myrna has had her own children attend and loves the sense of community surrounding the school. Some of her favorite memories at Carrillo are from Las Posadas, an annual tradition at the school.  

“It’s almost like a family atmosphere,” Myrna said. “That’s why I stayed here so long.” 

Myrna is also a former English Language Learner (ELL) student herself, and loves taking in ELL students into her class. She also tells her students on a regular basis that they are lucky to be able to attend Carrillo.  

The veteran teacher has looked at other schools throughout the Tucson area and believes Carrillo has the best staff and community. 

“We kind of all work together to make sure that [the students] have a great education,” Myrna said.