🤍❤️ Honoring a Beautiful Life ❤️🤍
Cottonwood-Oak Creek School district would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mrs. Deanna O'Donnell.
Deanna was a cherished member of the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District, where she devoted over two decades to teaching English and Art at the Cottonwood Jr. High School. Her passion for education, creativity, and her students left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Some of us who now work in the district were once her students, and we remember her fondly—as a teacher who's creativity inspired, encouraged, and truly cared.
Beyond the classroom, she was a dedicated advocate through her work with the Arizona Education Association, helping bring about meaningful reforms that continue to benefit educators and students alike.
She will be remembered not only for her commitment to teaching, but for the kindness, inspiration, and strength she shared with all who knew her.
Please keep her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched in your thoughts during this difficult time.
🌟 Staff Highlight: Michael “Mike” Curtis 🌟
Mike Curtis has been a valued member of the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District maintenance team for the past three years, and we’re lucky to have him!
Mike specializes in keys and lock security, playing a vital role in keeping our schools safe and secure. His attention to detail and commitment to safety help ensure everything is always up to par.
Beyond his expertise, Mike is known for his contagious laugh and positive attitude. He brings enthusiasm to everything he does and is always a pleasure to work with.
Recently, Mike has also earned the title of “White Fleet Warrior” with our transportation department, stepping up to drive 21st Century Club routes. There truly isn’t anything he won’t do to support our district.
Thank you, Mike, for your dedication, versatility, and team spirit—we appreciate you! 👏
🥬💚 National Spinach Day – March 26th! 💚🥬
Sodexo Food Service is excited to recognize National Spinach Day on March 26th!
Spinach may be small, but it’s packed with powerful nutrients that help fuel growing minds and bodies. Adding spinach to your meals is a great way to boost nutrition in a delicious way!
Here are just a few health benefits of spinach:
🌿 Rich in Iron – Supports healthy blood and energy levels
💪 High in Vitamin A & C – Helps support the immune system
🦴 Great Source of Calcium & Vitamin K – Promotes strong bones
❤️ Full of Antioxidants – Supports overall health
Whether it’s enjoyed fresh in a salad, blended into a smoothie, or added to your favorite recipes, spinach is a leafy green worth celebrating!
#NationalSpinachDay #Sodexo #SchoolNutrition #HealthyChoices #FuelForLearning
Mountain View Preparatory is looking for a passionate and dedicated 7th/8th Grade Social Studies Teacher to join our team!
If you love bringing history to life, encouraging critical thinking, and inspiring middle school students to explore the world around them, we’d love to hear from you.
Position Details: Teach 7th & 8th grade Social Studies
Come be part of a school community that values growth, connection, and excellence!
To apply or learn more, please visit www.cocsd.us
#MountainViewPreparatory #HomeoftheOcelots #NowHiring #TeachingJobs #SocialStudiesTeacher #MiddleSchoolTeacher #MVP #JoinOurTeam
🎉 Transportation Staff Highlight 🚌
Join us in celebrating Ayman Algohary, who marked his first full year as a school bus driver this February!
Ayman is already looking ahead—he’s working toward becoming a driver-trainer, with the goal of sharing his knowledge and helping train the next generation of drivers.
Each morning, Ayman safely transports students on the Antelope route, and in the afternoons, he jumps in wherever he’s needed most. He’s also recently taken on an additional role, driving for our 21st CCLC program, helping ensure students get home safely after evening activities.
What makes this even more impressive? Ayman balances all of this while maintaining a full-time job and running his own business!
Thank you, Ayman, for your dedication, flexibility, and commitment to student safety—we appreciate everything you do! 👏
🥖🧀 National Cheesesteak Day – March 24th! 🧀🥖
Did you know the cheesesteak was created in the 1930s in Philadelphia and quickly became one of America’s most iconic sandwiches? With thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a warm roll, it’s a classic favorite for a reason!
On March 24th, we celebrate National Cheesesteak Day — a fun way to recognize a little food history.
A traditional cheesesteak provides:
🥩 Protein to support growing muscles
🥖 Carbohydrates for energy
🧀 Calcium for strong bones
Whether you’re enjoying one at school or at home, take a moment to appreciate this delicious classic! 😋
#NationalCheesesteakDay #Sodexo #SchoolNutrition #FoodHistory
🚴♂️🌟 Spring Break Bike Camp = HUGE SUCCESS! 🌟🚴♀️
The 2026 Spring Break Bike Camp, powered by our incredible partners Wheel Fun and Sedona Mountain Bike Academy, was one for the books! 🙌
And here’s something to celebrate… 🎉
This marked our 15th camp together!
From summer to fall to spring break, this partnership continues to bring unforgettable experiences to our students. 💙
Thank you, Wheel Fun and Sedona Mountain Bike Academy, for:
✨ Putting kids on bikes
✨ Building confidence and skills
✨ Creating lasting memories
✨ Bringing so much fun and learning to our community
We are so grateful for this amazing partnership and can’t wait for many more rides ahead! 🚵♂️💥
#COCSD #WheelFun #SedonaMountainBikeAcademy #BikeCamp #StrongerTogether #StudentSuccess #RideOn
💐Gratitude Post💐
As we enjoy Spring Break, we’re grateful for our amazing families.
Drop one thing you’re thankful for this week!
🌼 Wellness & Connection🌼
Family Time Check-In
Spring Break is a great time to unplug. 📵
What’s one screen-free activity your family is doing this week?
Looking for something to do this week?
What are your favorite kid-friendly spots in our community? Drop your recommendations below to help other families!
🍔🎉 National Sloppy Joe Day – March 18th! 🎉🍔
Sodexo Food Service is excited to recognize National Sloppy Joe Day on March 18th — celebrating a true classic school lunch favorite!
With seasoned ground beef served on a soft bun, the Sloppy Joe has been a cafeteria staple for generations. It’s a meal that brings a little nostalgia and a lot of flavor to lunchtime.
Beyond being a favorite, Sloppy Joes provide:
🥩 Protein to help students grow strong
🍞 Carbohydrates for energy to power through the day
🥕 When paired with fruits and vegetables, it’s all part of a balanced school meal
Join us in celebrating this longtime lunchroom classic! 😋
#NationalSloppyJoeDay #Sodexo #SchoolLunch #FuelForLearning
🌷Memory Makers🌷
What’s one family tradition you look forward to during Spring Break?
Share below—we love hearing your traditions!
🍀🌈 Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 🌈🍀
Wishing all of our families a safe and joyful St. Patrick’s Day! May your day be filled with a little extra luck, lots of laughter, and time spent with those you cherish most.
Whether you’re wearing green, enjoying festive treats, or simply celebrating the spirit of the day, we hope it’s a wonderful one for you and your family!
🍀✨ Here’s to a day full of smiles and good fortune! ✨🍀
📚Spring Break Reading Challenge! 📚
Can your student read 20 minutes a day this week?
Comment ‘We’re in!’ and share a photo of your child’s favorite book!
🌸 Spring Break Check-In Posts🌸
Travel Plans Poll-
Spring Break is here! ☀️ Are you traveling, staying local, or just relaxing at home? Drop an emoji below!
✈️ Traveling
🏡 Staycation
🎉 Family Fun
😴 Rest & Recharge
🐰🌷 Hop on over for some Easter fun! 🌷🐰
Join us for the Annual Easter Eggstravaganza on April 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Riverfront Park – Youth Fields (1284 E. Riverfront Rd.).
Bring the kiddos (up to 8 years old) for a morning filled with:
🥚 Egg Hunt
🍬 Prizes & Candy
🐇 Meet the Easter Bunny
It’s going to be an egg-citing day you won’t want to miss! We can’t wait to see you there! 💐✨
#CottonwoodAZ #EasterEggstravaganza #FamilyFun #CommunityEvent
Looking for a great deal on Apple gear or office tech? The **Cottonwood-Oak Creek Schools Excess Technology Auction** is LIVE right now!
We have a massive variety of well-maintained equipment looking for a new home. Whether you're a student, a remote worker, or a tech enthusiast, there is something here for you.
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### 🚀 Featured Items Up For Grabs:
* **MacBooks** – Perfect for school or travel.
* **Mac Minis** – Powerful, compact desktop setups.
* **Apple TVs** – Level up your home entertainment.
* **AirPort Extremes** – Reliable networking for your home.
* **Ubiquiti Talk Handsets** – Professional-grade VoIP phones.
---
### 📅 THE DETAILS:
* **Status:** Auction is OPEN!
* **Ends:** Sunday, March 16th.
* **Where to Bid:**https://www.cocsd.us/page/auction-terms-and-conditions
Don't wait until the final countdown—items are moving fast! High bids help support our district, so it’s a win-win for everyone.
**👇 Tag a friend who needs a tech upgrade in the comments!**
#COCSD #CottonwoodAZ #TechAuction #AppleDeals #SupportOurSchools #EducationTech
🏁 REV Your Engines... 🏁
The Verde Tech High School Second Annual Car Show is rolling in and you don’t want to miss it! 🚗💨
Bring your cars, trucks, motorcycles, classics, and customs and show them off for a great cause. All proceeds support the Verde Tech FFA! 🌱🐄
🔥 What to expect:
🏎️ Awesome vehicles
🍔 Food trucks
🥤 Sinful Sodas
🌭 Dog Town USA
🍧 Snow to Go Shaved Ice
🎟️ Silent Auction
📅 April 18th, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 301 North Willard St, Cottonwood
💵 $10 entry per vehicle
Bring the family, invite your friends, and enjoy an afternoon of horsepower, food, and fun! 🏎️🔥🏁
📞 For details call: (928) 634-2191
#CarShow #RevYourEngines #VerdeTech #ClassicCars #CottonwoodAZ #SupportFFA
🚀 Summer 2026 STEAM Camps Are Here! 🎨🔬🤖
Looking for an exciting, hands-on summer experience for your kids? Science Vortex Summer STEAM Camps combine Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math into engaging activities that spark curiosity and creativity!
Kids will explore robotics, electrical circuits, coding challenges, 3D printing, engineering design, and collaborative problem-solving while having an absolute blast. These camps are perfect for curious minds who love to build, create, experiment, and discover how things work.
📍 Locations:
• Cottonwood – Science Vortex
• Sedona – City of Sedona Hub
👦👧 Age Groups: 6–12
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
💲 Camp Options:
• 3-Day Camp – $120
• 4-Day Camp – $160
• 5-Day Camp – $195
✨ Each camp features unique hands-on STEAM challenges, creative projects, and teamwork activities led by experienced instructors.
📅 Spots are limited—register early!
📩 For information or to register:
laurie@sciencevortex.org
See the flyer below for full camp dates and details!
#STEAM #SummerCamp2026 #ScienceVortex #STEMEducation #ArizonaKids #HandsOnLearning
