
We’re excited to share that thanks to the new mini safety grant, Oak Creek School has had a deputy on campus all week—and will continue to have one for the rest of the year! 🚓 Today, our deputy joined the kids at recess for some fun games, creating positive interactions between law enforcement and students. This helps build trust and ensures everyone feels safer on campus. 🙌 #SchoolSafety #CommunitySupport #PositiveConnections #YCSO #OakCreekSchool



🎉 We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Heather Wacker for her outstanding presentation at the ESSA State Conference! 🌟 Heather highlighted the amazing community partnerships that make our Camp Innovation Summer Camp a success. These partnerships include Wheel Fun Bike Camps, Bent River Farm, Science Vortex, Rim Country Bow Hunters Archery Program, and the Cottonwood Recreation Center. 🙌
Her dedication to fostering these connections helps provide our campers with unique and enriching experiences. Thank you, Heather, for representing COCSD with such passion and commitment! 👏 #COCSDCommunityPartnerships #CampInnovation #COCSDProud #ESSAStateConference





🚍 Important Update for COCSD Families 🚍
We’re excited to announce that our Governing Board has approved a new Transportation Discipline Matrix, now included in the student handbook. This matrix will provide clear and consistent guidelines for addressing bus-related issues, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all students.
Please take a moment to review the matrix and discuss bus behavior expectations with your children. Together, we can maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere for everyone.
📖 Review the new matrix here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rB4AMES574BbIaJMW4He6magY_uM2aXR/view?usp=sharing
For any questions, feel free to contact us at (928) 634-2288. Thank you for your continued support!
#COCSD #StudentSafety #Transportation #CommunityPartnership


🎉 Exciting News! 🎉
The 2025 Verde Valley SciTech Festival is almost here, and we couldn't be more excited! 🌟 The Verde Valley STREAM Council is bringing back this incredible celebration of all things STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) throughout the month of February. 🧬🔬💻⚙️
With 62 FREE events across the Verde Valley, this festival is the perfect opportunity for families to discover the amazing world of STEM! From hands-on experiments to interactive workshops, there's something for everyone. 🌱👩🔬👨🚀
Whether you're a future scientist, engineer, or tech wizard—or just curious to learn more—this event is for YOU! 💡
🗓 When: February 2025
📍 Where: Across the Verde Valley, AZ
🎯 What: 62 FREE events showcasing STEM education and resources
Let’s come together to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and innovators! 💥✨
#VerdeValleySciTech #STEMFestival #STEMEducation #FamilyFun #InspireInnovation #VerdeValleyAZ


Hello OCS families... regretfully, Antelope route will not be running this afternoon, Tues 1/14. Please make other arraignments for your students to get home today. This is due to last minute change with driver's availability. We appreciate your patience with this matter... - Daniel Maldonado, Transportation Director



🌟 Exciting News at Cottonwood Education Services! 🌟
We are thrilled to share the results of our recent kitchen remodel here at the Cottonwood campus! 🍴✨ What once was an outdated, cramped space is now a bright, modern hub that will serve our team, students, and community for years to come!
Swipe to see the before and after photos — we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy this upgraded space. Whether it's for meal prep, collaborative work, or simply a place for students to gather, this new kitchen is a game-changer.
Huge thanks to our team for making this vision a reality. 💪
#CottonwoodRemodel #KitchenUpgrade #BeforeAndAfter #CommunitySpaces #CottonwoodEducationServices






🌟 Governing Board Acknowledgement: January Spotlight 🌟
We are thrilled to recognize the amazing COCSD Payroll Department as January's Governing Board Acknowledgement! This hardworking team—Kalista Baze, Kim Cox & Rhonda Kester—goes above and beyond to ensure our staff is supported with accuracy, efficiency, and a smile.
Their dedication behind the scenes keeps everything running smoothly, and their commitment to excellence does not go unnoticed. 💼💙 Thank you, Kalista, Kim & Rhonda, for all you do to serve our district with care and professionalism!
Join us in celebrating this incredible team for their well-deserved recognition! 🎉👏
#COCSDPride #Teamwork #PayrollExcellence


Good morning COCSD families... as you know we have made changes to the bus routes as we returned from Winter Break. We are adjusting the times to make sure your child gets to school and /or home on time. Please keep an eye on your student's bus route through this week as we make these adjustments. They will be posted on our website by the end of each day. All times should be permanent by the end of this week. Thank you for your patience with this. - Daniel Maldonado, Transportation Director


🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Healthy Food Healthy Minds! 🌟
We are beyond grateful to Healthy Food Healthy Minds for their incredible donation of $4,674.18 to clear all past-due balances on student meal accounts! ❤️
Your generosity ensures that no child is left worrying about their lunch balance, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—learning, growing, and thriving.
This act of kindness demonstrates the power of community and the impact we can make when we work together. Thank you for supporting our students and families in such a meaningful way! For more information check out their website: https://www.healthyfoodhealthyminds.org
#HealthyFoodHealthyMinds #COCSDCommunitySupport #Gratitude #MakingADifference


🌟 Sponsor a Child and Make a Difference! 🌟
Help a child in our community attend Camp Innovation, an engaging summer program filled with creativity, exploration, and learning! By donating your Arizona Tax Credit, you can give a child the opportunity to thrive in a safe and enriching environment.
💡 What is Camp Innovation?
Camp Innovation is a 21st Century Learning summer program that inspires kids to explore STEM, agriculture, leadership, and teamwork in a fun and supportive setting.
💵 How Can You Help?
Your Arizona Tax Credit donation can sponsor a child for this incredible experience—all at no extra cost to you! Contributions up to $200 for individuals or $400 for couples filing jointly are eligible for a dollar-for-dollar credit on your state taxes.
🎯 It’s Simple!
Complete the attached form and return with your payment.
🗓️ Deadline: April 15, 2025 (or the day you file your taxes).
Let’s work together to give every child in our community the chance to shine. Share this post and encourage your friends and family to support!
Thank you for helping us build a brighter future. 💛
#COCSDSupportLocalKids #CampInnovation #TaxCredit #CottonwoodCommunity



📢 Important Update for COCSD Families and Staff 📢
Starting January 8th, 2025, our Governing Board Meetings will have a new schedule! 🎉
🗓️ New Schedule:
Study Session: 4:30 PM
Board Meeting: 5:00 PM
Day: Wednesdays
We’re also excited to announce that meetings will be live-streamed starting January 8th, so you can stay informed and engaged from anywhere! 🌐
📍 Live Stream Link: https://cocsd.diligent.community/Portal/
Want to stay informed about agendas? Sign up for notifications here:
👉 https://cocsd.diligent.community/Portal/Subscribe.aspx
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our district. We look forward to seeing you online or in person as we work together to support our students and community! 💙✨
#COCSD #BoardMeetings #Community


🎆 Happy New Year from All of Us! 🎉
As we ring in the New Year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible staff, students, and families. Thank you for making our community so special! 💛
Here’s to a year filled with success, growth, and joy for everyone. Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with new opportunities and bright beginnings! 🌟
Let’s make 2025 the best year yet! 🥂✨
#HappyNewYear #COCSDCommunityStrong #Welcome2025


📣 Attention COCSD Families!
We hope you’re enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones! As we prepare to welcome students back to school on Monday, January 6th, we want to share some important updates regarding bus routes due to a shortage of drivers. We are creating community stops. 🚌
🚨 Key Changes to Bus Routes:
✅ All routes have been reviewed and revamped to improve efficiency by creating community stops.
✅ Please check the updated routes and schedules on the District website:
👉 COCSD Transportation Info.
1️⃣ Select your student’s school.
2️⃣ Find the updated bus route details.
What’s New?
Some stops have been removed, and timeframes have been adjusted to optimize routes.
If your stop is no longer listed, please use the closest stop to your location.
Reminder: The 1-Mile Radius Rule is still in effect, so families within 1 mile of the school may need to arrange alternate transportation.
We know these changes may require adjustments, and we deeply appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to avoid route cancellations for the remainder of the school year.
Questions?
📞 Call the Transportation Office: 928-634-9679
🚍 Interested in Driving for Us?
We’re hiring! If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a driver, check out the job details and apply here:
👉 Join Our Team.
Thank you for your support in helping us keep students safe and on schedule. We can’t wait to see everyone back next week!
Best Regards,
Daniel Maldonado, Transportation Director
(928) 634-9679


🎉 Share Your School Year Highlights! 📚✏️
As this year comes to an end and we move into the new year, parents, we’d love to hear from you! What’s been a standout moment for your child this year at school? 🏆✨ Whether it’s an academic achievement, a special project, a sports milestone, or even a small but meaningful victory, we want to celebrate those moments with you!
Drop your highlights in the comments below and feel free to share a photo if you’d like! Let’s spread some positivity and cheer for all the incredible things happening in our kids' lives. 💛
#COCSDSchoolYearHighlights #ProudParentMoments #COCSDCommunityConnections


🎉 Exciting News from Cottonwood Parks and Recreation! 🌟
❄️ Winter Camp 2023
Looking for a fun and engaging way for your kids to spend winter break? Our Winter Camp is packed with activities, games, and crafts to keep your little ones active and entertained! Spaces are limited, so sign up soon!
🚌 After School Program
School's out, fun is in! Our After School Program offers a safe and enjoyable space for kids to learn, play, and grow. Join us for homework help, creative projects, and outdoor activities.
✨ FREE New Year’s Eve Celebration for Youth
Ring in 2024 with us! We’re hosting a FREE New Year’s Eve Celebration just for the youth of our community. Expect games, movies, snacks, and plenty of fun as we count down to the new year together!
📅 Details & Registration:
Visit our website or stop by Cottonwood Parks and Recreation for more information. Let’s make this season unforgettable!
📞 Questions? Call us at (928) 639-3200.
Follow us for updates!
#CottonwoodCommunity #YouthPrograms #WinterCamp #AfterSchoolFun #NYE2024 🎉


Thank you, LISA, for generously providing first aid packs for each of our afterschool sites! Your support and partnership play a vital role in ensuring the quality and safety of our programs for the kids we serve. We deeply appreciate your commitment and collaboration—thank you, LISA!


Thank you, LISA, for providing the dazzling, professional costumes for Oak Creek School's Kid’s Dance Club! Your generosity has elevated the program, taught by the incredible Ms. Danielle, whose expertise and dedication continue to inspire our students.
Thanks to your support, the program is thriving, and the kids shone brightly with their medley of dance performances from Grease, stealing the show at the 21st Century Community Learning Center's Night of Sharing on December 12th. We are excited to see what amazing performances this talented group will bring us next! Thank you for being an essential part of their success!


🎄🎁 The 12 Days of Holiday Cheer! 🎁
🧡 Day 12: What does the holiday season mean to you and your family?
Comment below or tag us in your posts each day. We can’t wait to see your holiday favorites! #COCSD12DaysOfHolidayCheer #SchoolDistrictFamily #HolidayFavorites


Make sure to update your Cottonwood-Oak Creek Schools app to ensure you get the latest updates and information!


🎉 Exciting News from Cottonwood Parks and Recreation! 🌟
❄️ Winter Camp 2023
Looking for a fun and engaging way for your kids to spend winter break? Our Winter Camp is packed with activities, games, and crafts to keep your little ones active and entertained! Spaces are limited, so sign up soon!
🚌 After School Program
School's out, fun is in! Our After School Program offers a safe and enjoyable space for kids to learn, play, and grow. Join us for homework help, creative projects, and outdoor activities.
✨ FREE New Year’s Eve Celebration for Youth
Ring in 2024 with us! We’re hosting a FREE New Year’s Eve Celebration just for the youth of our community. Expect games, movies, snacks, and plenty of fun as we count down to the new year together!
📅 Details & Registration:
Visit our website or stop by Cottonwood Parks and Recreation for more information. Let’s make this season unforgettable!
📞 Questions? Call us at (928) 639-3200.
Follow us for updates!
#CottonwoodCommunity #YouthPrograms #WinterCamp #AfterSchoolFun #NYE2024 🎉
