Welcome to the 2025–2026 School Year
By Superintendent Jessica Vocca
As we open the doors to the 2025–2026 school year, I want to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all our students, families, and staff, both those returning and those joining us for the first time. At the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District, our guiding theme this year is “Leading with Heart and Teaching with Purpose” and I can think of no better way to describe the dedication of our team and the spirit of our community.
Our Incredible Team of Educators
We are fortunate to welcome back an exceptional group of experienced, high-quality teachers who embody our theme every day, leading with compassion and teaching with intentionality. They are the heart of our district, nurturing not just academic growth, but also character and confidence in our students.
We are also excited to welcome some new teachers who bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to our mission. This year, our family grows even more globally, with one new teacher joining us all the way from the Philippines, a wonderful reminder that the values of heart and purpose know no borders.
Persevering Through Summer Challenges
Over the summer, we faced uncertainty about our federal 21st Century Program funding, which supports vital after-school learning. Not knowing if we would receive it challenged us to stay hopeful and persistent in exploring additional funding options. At the last moment, the funding came through, and thanks to the dedication of our staff and community, we will be offering 21st-Century after-school programs at each school site again this year. Information will be coming home soon about all of the wonderful opportunities available to your child. This is Leading with Heart: persevering for the benefit of our students.
Nourishing Every Child
When we say we teach with purpose, it extends beyond academics. We are proud to continue offering free breakfast and lunch to all students because every child deserves to learn without the distraction of hunger.
Opportunities to Serve
We continue to face challenges in finding bus drivers and a district nurse. So we ask for patience and grace as we navigate these setbacks. If you or someone you know is ready to serve our students with heart and purpose, please consider applying online at https://cottonwood.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx .
In the meantime, we are partnering with the Yavapai County Education Services Agency to ensure our health aides have certified nursing support and to provide professional training for our staff.
A Year of Connection and Growth
To help us make this school year the best it can be, we encourage families to:
Prioritize regular school attendance, because every day in school matters.
Keep registration and contact information up to date at your school’s front office so we can stay connected.
Keep the lines of communication open with your child’s teacher and school staff so that we can serve as needs arise.
As we step into this new year together, I am filled with optimism and gratitude. Thank you for entrusting us with your children and joining us in our shared mission. Let’s make 2025–2026 a year where we truly Lead with Heart and Teach with Purpose, in every classroom, on every playground, and in every interaction.
Here’s to a great year ahead!
— Superintendent Jessica Vocca