About Me

My name is Derek Cardinal.  I am a sixth grade teacher at Negaunee Middle School.  I am originally from Minnesota, and I graduated from North Branch Senior High School in 1996.  I graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth with a degree in Elementary Education in 2000.  I was extremely fortunate to receive a teaching position at Lakeview Elementary that same year.  I taught second grade for five years and fourth grade for two years.  I was awarded the Negaunee Teacher of the Year in 2006.  During my time as an elementary teacher, I attended Northern Michigan University and received a degree in Educational Administration.  I left the classroom and was Lakeview's Assistant Principal for two years.  I followed my heart and decided to return to the classroom.  I moved to Negaunee Middle School and have taught sixth grade for the last fifteen years.

I met my wife, Jen, while attending the University of Minnesota Duluth.  She transferred to Northern Michigan University for Nursing the same year I graduated with my degree.  I decided to follow her to Marquette in the summer of 2000 before I even had a teaching position.  (I had only been to the Upper Peninsula once before on a summer vacation to Ironwood when I was a young child.)  Jen and I got married in 2003 and built our home in 2004.  We now have three boys: Owen (17), Aiden (15), and Evan (12).  They love sports, especially baseball.  We also have two Pugs named Theo and Murphy.  I enjoy spending my time with my family whether it is fishing, traveling, or watching football.  I also love photography. 

Teaching is not my job, it is my passion. I love working with young adults and helping them succeed.  I look forward to getting to know you and your family.