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Cottonwood Plains Elementary
Principal: Dave Patterson

Mission Statement: To provide a learning environment . . .

  • of structured freedom which is safe, trusting, and respectful
  • with high standards for academics and behavior
  • which develops learning-to-learn strategies, a concept and knowledge base, and the ability to apply learning
  • that focuses on the learning process as well as the products of learning
  • which encourages goal-setting, problem solving and risk-taking to help children achieve their highest potential
  • that fosters feelings of significance, self-esteem, and intrinsic motivation
  • that promotes learning which is relevant to the child's development, interests, and learning style
  • which involves students, parents, staff, and community working as a team that celebrates growth

Academic focus - Cottonwood Plains is engaged in continuous improvement with the ultimate goal of providing the best possible educational experience for our students. We have high expectations regarding student achievement and academic performance. Emphasis is placed on balanced literacy and math instruction, the use of strong curriculum, and differentiation practices that support the idea that there are similarities yet differences in the way each student learns. Critical thinking is crucial and helps our students understand what is being taught in a deeper way, to problem solve effectively, and to make connections to what they are learning and why it's important. Beyond our formal academic goals is our shared hope that students learn, see school as important, enjoy being part of our learning community, and feel safe and cared for in our school.

Environment - Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a school-wide approach to discipline that is being used at Cottonwood Plains and other schools across the state. At the core of the PBS initiative is the use of proactive strategies for defining, teaching, and supporting appropriate student behavior to create a positive school environment. We know that students don't automatically know what is expected of them as they walk into school, and rather than just post rules, we spend the time teaching them, give examples, and reinforce their use. Cottonwood Plains is a great school and has exceptional students..

Positive reinforcement - Students and their achievements are celebrated at Cottonwood Plains. We have high expectations in behavior and citizenship. Pride is the motto, which stands for Positive Attitude, Respect Oneself and Others, Independent Thinking, Do your Best, and Everyone Belongs. Students are "caught" demonstrating their Pride, and they enjoy being recognized by the staff for positive choices made.

Parent partnership - There is strong commitment from parents and community members to support the learning and overall growth of the students attending Cottonwood Plains. This partnership welcomes parents as volunteers in classrooms, the library, the office, and other areas and to work closely with students in a supportive academic role. Parent input and involvement is sought through committees and other groups such as the School Accountability Advisory Committee (SAAC), Parent Teacher Association (PTA), and other volunteer groups.

Enrichment - Cottonwood Plains has very strong art, PE and music programs. Students demonstrate their learning in these areas through activities such as choir, music programs and performances, art showcases, an after-school Art Club, Jump Rope for Heart and the Schools on the Move challenge. Beyond specials, student leadership is channeled through Scouts, Student Council, and the idea that all students are role models to others. We also have Odyssey of the Mind, Lego Robotics, and chess and Spanish clubs.