🌟 Partnership Appreciation Picnic 🌟
We celebrated something truly special last week—our incredible community partners who help make our 21st Century programs possible!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to every organization, business, club leader, volunteer, and community member who shares their time, talents, resources, and expertise with our students. Because of your support, our students have access to enriching experiences that inspire learning, creativity, leadership, wellness, and career exploration.
We are especially grateful for the support of:
💚 Bent River Farm
💚 Wheel Fun Rentals
💚 Gardens for Humanity
💚 The Den
💚 Cottonwood Public Library
💚 Community Volunteers
💚 Parks & Recreation
💚 VACTE
💚 Yavapai County
💚 Rim Country Bow Hunters
💚 Yavapai College
💚 Science Vortex
💚 928 Signs
💚 Mingus Theater ATORT
💚 Verde Valley Fair
💚 Archery Clubs
💚 Lisa Organization
Your partnerships help create meaningful opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom and make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.
Thank you for believing in our youth and investing in their future. We couldn't do it without you!
#PartnershipAppreciation #21stCenturyLearning #CommunityPartners #StudentSuccess #ThankYou
Several COCSD teachers recently attended the 6th Annual ATA Beginning Teacher Institute, where they gained valuable strategies to increase rigor in their classroom instruction.
Educators learned from Dr. Michael McDowell, who emphasized that "Rigor is not an event. It's a routine," and explored practical ways to embed rigor into everyday learning. Teachers also collaborated with colleagues, learned about the State 48 Graduate Profile, and heard from educational leaders and National Board Certified Teachers.
We look forward to seeing these new ideas come to life in COCSD classrooms this fall!
#COCSD #ProfessionalLearning #TeacherGrowth
🌟🏕️ CAMP INNOVATION IS BETTER WITH ALUMNI LEADERS! 🏕️🌟
There's something special happening at Camp Innovation this summer! 💡🚀
We're thrilled to welcome back COCSD alumni Mica Altringer, Mia Vocca, Cambry Goff, Lane Armstrong, and Javan Sutter as camp assistants! 🎉👏
As former COCSD students, they know firsthand what it means to be part of our school family ❤️🏫. Their ability to connect with our younger campers, build positive relationships, and serve as role models makes a tremendous impact every day. 🌟🤝
From helping with hands-on activities 🔬🎨💻 to encouraging creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving 🧩💡, these alumni are demonstrating outstanding leadership while inspiring the next generation of COCSD learners! 🚀📚
We are incredibly proud to see these former students giving back to the district that helped shape them. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and mentorship are helping make Camp Innovation an unforgettable experience for our campers! ☀️🙌
💙 Thank you, Mica, Mia, Cambry, Lane, and Javan, for investing your time, talents, and energy into our students. You are making a difference! 💛
#COCSDProud 💙💛 #CampInnovation 🚀 #AlumniLeadership 🌟 #FutureLeaders 🙌 #MentorshipMatters 🤝 🏫❤️ #StudentSuccess 🎓 #COCSDFamily
📚✨ Learning, Growing, and Building Momentum! 🚀
Our COCSD administrators and teachers recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in Dr. Dan Mulligan's Flexible Creativity training! 🎉🧠
This engaging professional learning experience aligns perfectly with our Project Momentum initiative and our commitment to ensuring every student succeeds through high-quality instruction. 💙💛
Participants explored how to:
✅ Unpack the Arizona State Standards 📖
✅ Use evidence-based instructional practices 🔍
✅ Strengthen Structured Literacy instruction 📚✏️
✅ Enhance mathematics teaching and learning ➕➗
✅ Foster creativity while maintaining rigorous academic expectations 🌟
By focusing on standards-driven instruction and proven teaching strategies, our educators are continuing to build the skills and knowledge needed to help all students thrive! 🌱🎓
👏 A HUGE thank you to Yavapai County Superintendent Steve King, YCESA, and the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors for bringing this outstanding training to Yavapai County and inviting our administrators and teachers to participate. Your support of educators makes a lasting impact on classrooms across our county! 🙌🏽🍎
Together, we're creating momentum, strengthening instruction, and empowering student success! 🚀❤️
#ProjectMomentum 🚀 #FlexibleCreativity 💡 #StructuredLiteracy 📚 #EvidenceBasedInstruction 🔍 #ArizonaStandards 📖 #TeacherLearning 🍎 #StudentSuccess 🌟 #YCESA 🤝 #COCSD 💙💛
Twist, turn, POP! 🎈
Our Camp Innovation kiddos had a blast learning how to make balloon animals with Ms. Lauren! While there were a few popped balloons and moments of frustration along the way, our campers showed incredible perseverance and didn't give up. With patience, determination, and a little creativity, they worked through the challenges and ended the activity with completed balloon animals and HUGE smiles on their faces!
A big thank you to Ms. Lauren for sharing this unique and fun experience with our campers. We love seeing our students try new things, build confidence, and create lasting memories together! 💙🎈
Our Camp Innovation kiddos had a blast learning how to make balloon animals with Ms. Lauren! While there were a few popped balloons and moments of frustration along the way, our campers showed incredible perseverance and didn't give up. With patience, determination, and a little creativity, they worked through the challenges and ended the activity with completed balloon animals and HUGE smiles on their faces!
A big thank you to Ms. Lauren for sharing this unique and fun experience with our campers. We love seeing our students try new things, build confidence, and create lasting memories together! 💙🎈
🎭🌟 Mingus ATORT's 21st CCLC Summer Kids Camp was a huge success! 🌟🎭
We are so grateful for our partnership with Mingus Union High School and the incredible opportunities they provide for our students. Summer Kids Camp helped young performers from across the district step out of their comfort zones, build confidence, and discover their talents on stage.
Throughout the week, students learned dance routines, songs, pantomimes, and skits, all culminating in an amazing performance for a packed auditorium. Their hard work, courage, and creativity were on full display!
A special thank you to Mr. James Ball, Katie Hall, and all of our friends at Mingus for sharing your talents and passion with our young actors. Your impact reaches far beyond the stage.
Bravo, campers! We are so proud of you! 👏🎭✨
#21stCCLC #SummerKidsCamp #MingusTheatre #YoungActors #CampInnovation #BuildingConfidence #ArtsEducation #Bravo
At Camp Innovation there was no shortage of smiles (or messes!) in Ms. Michelle's Art Class this week! 🎨✨
Campers of all ages had so much fun making homemade playdough from scratch. From mixing ingredients and choosing colors to creating their own unique designs, students got hands-on, creative, and a little messy along the way.
We're grateful for opportunities like these that help our campers learn, create, and make lasting summer memories!
🌱💚 Camp Innovation Leadership Academy in Action! 💚🌱
Our Leadership Academy students, under the guidance of Mr. Sandoval, rolled up their sleeves and got to work serving our community at the Cottonwood Community Gardens!
Armed with gloves, shovels, teamwork, and positive attitudes, our campers worked together to clear and beautify the garden beds. Service is a big part of Leadership Academy, and we love giving students opportunities to learn that they can make a difference right here in their own community.
A huge thank you to Cottonwood Parks and Recreation, Robert Gonzales, and his amazing team for partnering with us and creating meaningful opportunities for our students to serve.
We are grateful to be part of a community that believes in young people, invests in their growth, and shares in opportunities to do good.
Well done, Camp Innovation! And thank you, Cottonwood, for helping us grow leaders through service. 🌱✨
#CampInnovation #LeadershipAcademy #ServiceMatters #CottonwoodAZ #ParksAndRecreation #GrowingLeaders #CommunityStrong
🌞🔬 Camp Innovation + Science Vortex = Summer Learning Adventures! 🌿🐞
This week, our campers had an incredible opportunity to partner with Science Vortex and dive into the natural wonders of our community!
Students spent the week learning about the history and significance of Tuzigoot National Monument, as well as exploring the fascinating world of macroinvertebrates that call the Verde River home. From discovering how these tiny creatures help scientists understand river health to learning about the people who once lived in the Verde Valley, our campers were fully engaged in hands-on learning and exploration.
The highlight of the week was an exciting field trip where students got to experience firsthand everything they had been learning about. Seeing Tuzigoot and the Verde River up close brought their lessons to life and created memories they'll never forget!
A huge thank you to Mrs. Laurie and Mr. A at the Science Vortex for helping make learning fun, meaningful, and adventurous for our Camp Innovation students! 💙🌎
This week, our campers had an incredible opportunity to partner with Science Vortex and dive into the natural wonders of our community!
Students spent the week learning about the history and significance of Tuzigoot National Monument, as well as exploring the fascinating world of macroinvertebrates that call the Verde River home. From discovering how these tiny creatures help scientists understand river health to learning about the people who once lived in the Verde Valley, our campers were fully engaged in hands-on learning and exploration.
The highlight of the week was an exciting field trip where students got to experience firsthand everything they had been learning about. Seeing Tuzigoot and the Verde River up close brought their lessons to life and created memories they'll never forget!
A huge thank you to Mrs. Laurie and Mr. A at the Science Vortex for helping make learning fun, meaningful, and adventurous for our Camp Innovation students! 💙🌎
🤖✨ AI in the Classroom! 📚💡
School may be out for summer, but COCSD teachers are busy learning! COCSD teachers took part in an exciting two-day "AI for the Classroom" professional learning experience led by:
🌟 Robin Bryce, Executive Director of the Center for Learning and Innovation at Yavapai College
🌟 Jamie Woodward, COCSD Curriculum Director
Over two inspiring days, educators explored practical AI tools and innovative strategies designed to support teaching, enhance learning, and prepare students for the future. 🚀🎓
👏 A huge THANK YOU to Superintendent Steve King and the Yavapai County School Superintendent’s Office for funding this valuable professional learning opportunity and investing in the success of our teachers and students! ❤️🍎
Together, we're embracing innovation, empowering educators, and creating new possibilities for learning in the classroom! 🌎✨
#COCSDProud 💙
#AIintheClassroom 🤖
#ProfessionalLearning 📚
#FutureReadySchools 🚀
#TeacherInnovation 🍎
#LifelongLearning 🌟
#EducationalExcellence 🎓
#COCSDStrong 💪
📢 Proposition 409 Information
🏫 On November 3, 2026, voters in the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District will consider Proposition 409, a proposed capital bond.
🔧 If approved by voters, bond funds could be used for facility improvements, school safety enhancements, infrastructure repairs, technology upgrades, and transportation needs.
☕ According to district estimates, the average tax impact would be approximately the cost of two cups of coffee per month for the average homeowner.
📄 Please review the attached Fact Sheet, learn the facts, and share factual information with others.
🗳️ Remember to vote on November 3, 2026.
COCSD's Camp Innovation was proud to give back to our community today!
A special thank you to Mr. Sandoval for leading our Camp Innovation middle school crew to Manzanita Outreach, where students helped pack food for community members in need. This hands-on service opportunity allowed our students to make a meaningful impact while learning the importance of compassion, teamwork, and community service.
We are so proud of our students for stepping up and serving others. Thank you, Manzanita Outreach, for welcoming us and allowing our students to be part of your important work!
A special thank you to Mr. Sandoval for leading our Camp Innovation middle school crew to Manzanita Outreach, where students helped pack food for community members in need. This hands-on service opportunity allowed our students to make a meaningful impact while learning the importance of compassion, teamwork, and community service.
We are so proud of our students for stepping up and serving others. Thank you, Manzanita Outreach, for welcoming us and allowing our students to be part of your important work!
🇺🇸🎆 Celebrate Independence Day with the whole family at Cottonwood Kids Park! 🎆🇺🇸
Join us for a Fantastic Family 4th of July celebration packed with fun, food, and fireworks as we honor America’s 250th birthday! ❤️🤍💙
📅 July 4
🕓 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Cottonwood Kids Park (350 S 12th St.)
🚗 Parking: $1
✨ Event Highlights:
🍔 FREE food served 4–6 PM
🎈 Inflatables ($10 wristband required)
🇺🇸 VFW Patriot Salute
🛍 Local vendors
✈️ Flyover from Luke Air Force Base
🎆 Fireworks Show at 9 PM
Bring your lawn chairs, your family, and your patriotic spirit for an unforgettable evening of community celebration! 🇺🇸🎇
#CottonwoodAZ #FourthOfJuly #FamilyFun #Fireworks #CelebrateAmerica #ArizonaEvents #IndependenceDay #America250
Camp Innovation is off to a great start! 🌟
Mrs. Ozuna is helping our rising 1st graders have fun while getting a head start on next school year. One of our favorite activities so far has been choosing desert animal names for our groups. Mrs. Ozuna's class proudly chose the Harris Hawks! 🦅
There are lots of exciting learning adventures ahead, and we're just getting started!
Mrs. Ozuna is helping our rising 1st graders have fun while getting a head start on next school year. One of our favorite activities so far has been choosing desert animal names for our groups. Mrs. Ozuna's class proudly chose the Harris Hawks! 🦅
There are lots of exciting learning adventures ahead, and we're just getting started!
🚦🎉 Ready, Set, GO! 🎉🚦
It's go time at Camp Innovation! 🚀📚✨
COCSD is proud to support 220 students from across the district through our incredible six-week, no-cost summer program focused on academic support, STEAM learning 🔬⚙️🎨, leadership development 🌟, enrichment opportunities 📖, and meaningful community partnerships 🤝 throughout Cottonwood.
Today marks the beginning of six weeks filled with learning, exploration, friendship, and memories that will last a lifetime! ❤️☀️ From hands-on STEM activities 🧪🤖 and literacy enrichment 📚 to exciting experiences and community connections 🌎, our campers are in for an unforgettable summer adventure!
👏 We could not provide these opportunities without our outstanding educators, support staff, community partners, transportation team 🚌, food service staff 🍎, and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make Camp Innovation possible.
💙 Thank you, Cottonwood, for believing in kids and investing in their future!
🎊 Let the fun and learning begin! 🎊
#CampInnovation #COCSD #SummerLearning #MakingMemories #STEAMEducation
🎬✨ Roll out the red carpet for a magical evening at Daddy Daughter Date Night! ✨🎬
Dads, grandpas, uncles, and special father figures — treat your favorite girl to a night of Hollywood glamour, fun, and unforgettable memories! 💃⭐
📅 June 19
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Cottonwood Community Clubhouse
🎟️ Tickets:
💛 $50 per couple
💛 $15 for each additional guest
✨ Dress to impress and enjoy a special evening filled with music, fun, and quality time together!
🎫 Purchase tickets online at:
👉 register.cottonwoodaz.gov
We can’t wait to see you shine on the red carpet! 🌟
#DaddyDaughterDateNight #CottonwoodAZ #FamilyFun #HollywoodGlamour #SpecialMemories #TheREC #DateNight #CommunityEvents
🎓💙 We are so proud to celebrate Verde Tech High School graduate and Valedictorian, Micah Schaefer! 💙🎓
Micah’s story is one of determination, passion, and perseverance. 🚧⚡ After discovering his love for construction and maintenance through Verde Tech classes, Micah turned that passion into real-world experience by working alongside the Verde Tech Buildings & Grounds team. From HVAC training to electrical work and hands-on campus projects, Micah has shown what Career & Technical Education is all about — learning by doing! 👏🔧
This incredible feature from Verde News highlights not only Micah’s hard work, but also the power of supportive educators, hands-on learning opportunities, and a community that believes in students. ❤️
Congratulations, Micah, on graduating as Verde Tech’s Valedictorian! Your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see where your talents take you next. 🌟🙌
Read the full Verde News story here:
https://www.verdenews.com/special/page-d-02/page_28d516d6-d382-5838-a373-90703830d404.html
#COCSD #VerdeTech #Valedictorian #CTE #StudentSuccess #FutureReady #VerdePride 🚀
🚵♂️🌲 COCSD mountain bike riders are having the experience of a lifetime in the cool mountain weather! ☀️🍃
A HUGE thank you to 🙌 Wheel Fun 🚲 and Sedona Mountain Bike Academy 🏔️ for continuing our Summer “Ride in the Pines” Camp! Riders from all FOUR elementary schools 🏫 are building skills 💪, confidence 🌟, and friendships 🤝 while practicing at the Fort Tuthill Bike Park 🚴♀️🔥
Later this week, these amazing riders will conquer the Campbell Mesa Trail in Flagstaff 🌲⛰️ — all at NO COST to families ❤️👏
We’re also incredibly grateful for our awesome Transportation Department 🚌 and our partnership with Sodexo Food Service 🍎🥪 for keeping our riders fueled with FREE meals all week long!
It truly takes a village 🫶 to create opportunities like this for kids.
Ride on, riders! 🚵♀️💨 #COCSD #RideInThePines #MountainBikeCamp #BuildingConfidence #CommunityStrong
📚✨ K-5 Foundations of Reading Study Session ✨📚
Teachers from across the Verde Valley recently came together for a K-5 Foundations of Reading Study Session to prepare for the state assessment! 🍎📝
Participants practiced sample test questions, collaborated with fellow educators 🤝, and received valuable feedback from facilitator Laura Borden, Oak Creek School Interventionist 👩🏫.
Two additional study sessions will be offered throughout the summer ☀️ thanks to the continued support of YCESA, Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools Steve King, and the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors 👏.
Thank you to our dedicated educators for their commitment to strengthening literacy instruction and supporting student success across our region! ❤️📖
🎬🍿 Cottonwood Parks & Rec Summer Cinema Series is BACK! 🍿🎬
Grab your lawn chairs, blankets, and the whole family for two FREE movie nights under the stars at the Outdoor Pool! 🌟
🎥 Movie Lineup:
🏴☠️ The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
📅 June 16, 2026
🕢 Gates Open at 7:45 PM
🦊🐰 Zootopia 2
📅 July 18, 2026
🕢 Gates Open at 7:45 PM
📍 Outdoor Pool – Cottonwood, AZ
🎟️ FREE ENTRY
A huge thank you to our sponsor ❤️
State Farm – Jennifer Griffin, Agent
Presented by Cottonwood Parks & Rec in collaboration with the Cottonwood Public Library.
#CottonwoodAZ #SummerCinemaSeries #FamilyFun #OutdoorMovies #CottonwoodParksAndRec #MovieNight #CommunityEvents #Zootopia2 #SpongeBobMovie
