Cotton Boll Elementary Empowers Migrant Workers' Children with Innovative KidCasters Program
Cotton Boll Elementary School, established in 1984, has been serving the children of migrant workers in Peoria, Arizona for nearly four decades. Located near 85th Avenue and Butler Drive, the school now educates 860 students and boasts a growing alumni community who return as educators and parents.
The school's Facebook KidCasters program offered students the chance to gain experience in front of the camera. Principal Christina Arias aims to inspire students to explore opportunities beyond their community, either to leave and grow or to return and strengthen it. The KidCasters initiative highlighted students' leadership and confidence, with some discovering new interests or career paths. Initially nervous, third-, fourth-, and fifth-graders performed well in the program. Teachers and parents were informed about the project through Facebook.
Cotton Boll Elementary School, described as a 'safe, communal place' by Principal Arias, continues to empower its students through innovative programs like KidCasters. With a growing alumni community and a commitment to nurturing young talent, the school remains an integral part of Peoria's educational landscape.
