I started my career in Cave Creek as a student at Black Mountain Elementary School and Cactus Shadows High School (Class of 1989).  I attended and graduated from The University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with minors in Communications and English. In 1991, I joined The Arizona National Guard and served until 1999 while attending school and starting my teaching career. In the mid 1990s, I earned a Post Baccalaureate in Secondary Education from ASU.   In 2003, I earned a Masters of Arts in Education - Administration and Supervision from The University of Phoenix. During my career I earned college credits in both Science and Physical Education, which led to certifications in both.

I started teaching ELA at Desert Arroyo Middle School in January 1997. A few years later, I moved to Sonoran Trails Middle School to teach 6th through 8th grade social studies, science, ELA, and P.E.  After almost 14 years in middle school, I moved up to Cactus Shadows High School where I taught ELA, US History, AM/AZ Government, and Dual Enrollment AM/AZ Government. During my time in Cave Creek, I also coached baseball, wrestling, boys’ volleyball, girls’ basketball, and football.  I left CSHS to pursue Administrative opportunities in Paradise Valley USD and Fountain Hills USD. My final Administrative position was Principal of Fountain Hills Middle School (4th - 8th grade).  After leaving Administration, I returned to the classroom as a K-6 Physical Education Teacher in Scottsdale USD and now I am returning home to CCUSD.

Please contact me at JAMES CARRICK, MA Ed