Rick Cottrell
Position: Principal
School: Camp Mohave Elementary School
School District: Mohave Valley Elementary School District 16
City, State: Fort Mohave, AZ
Support Rick
Leave a comment
Get Updates
Rick Cottrell was nominated anonymously.
Mr. Cottrell creates a positive environment by buying into the idea that every child is their own student. It does not matter the classroom they are assigned to - everyone is there for the students. As such, he greets kids outside each morning by name and gives high-fives at the end of the day as the school releases them to go home. Teachers don't just focus on math, reading, etc. They focus on the students and what they need to be successful. They build relationships because without them, learning cannot happen effectively.
I’ve worked under Mr. Cottrell as a teacher for the past five years, and his dedication to our students is unmatched. His heart is always in the right place—whether he’s greeting kids with a smile in the morning or building connections with them out at recess.
Mr. Cottrell is truly the heart of Camp Mohave Elementary. His leadership goes far beyond the role of principal—he genuinely cares for every student, staff member, and family in our community. He creates a welcoming environment where kids feel safe, supported, and motivated to do their best. His positivity, dedication, and constant encouragement inspire both students and teachers every single day. We are so fortunate to have a leader who leads with kindness, fairness, and vision. Mr. Cottrell has changed countless lives, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition!
Aww Mr. C ! I got to know him very well while my kids attended cmes and I volunteered with pto !! He’s a great guy! Has the students best interest at heart! I have a lot of appreciation for all that he does for his school and students! One of my favorite principals !
Mr. Cottrell met my fourth grader for the first time when we came in to enroll her for school after just moving to the area a month prior. after one meeting, he never forgot her name or their inside joke they said to each other that first day meeting.
this reassured me that my girl is in good hands and i chose the right school for her to attend.
Thank you, Mr. Cottrell!
I have worked at Camp Mohave and had two daughters who attended this school. We all feel he is quite deserving of this award!
It’s so refreshing seeing how much he cares about each and every student individually. Definitely deserved!
It’s no surprise that Mr. Cottrell has been nominated for LifeChanger of the Year, because that’s exactly what he is. He is a dedicated leader who believes in the power of relationships. Every morning, he’s out front to greet students with a smile, and every afternoon, he’s by the gate saying goodbye as they head to the buses. He joins students at recess and lunch, not because he has to, but because he wants to be present, connected, and engaged. My son attends Camp Mohave Elementary, and he loves his principal.
Mr. Cottrell's belief is that every child can succeed. He consistently reminds staff that it's our job to support all students and ensure they have the tools they need to thrive. Under his leadership, our rural school in a small town transformed into an A+ School of Excellence school, because of both academic achievement and the positive culture he has helped build. Under Mr. Cottrell's leadership, Camp Mohave Elementary has been named one of only 11 finalists nationwide for the 2025 America’s Best Schools Award by the National Center for Urban School Transformation.
He doesn’t just focus on test scores; he cares deeply about the overall well-being of each student. Whether it’s implementing new supports for social-emotional health or taking time to check in personally with students who need it most, he leads with both heart and purpose. He doesn’t just tell his staff to care for students, he lives it every day. He models what true dedication looks like in every aspect of our work.
He’s the kind of leader who lifts everyone around him, students, staff, and families alike. We are incredibly proud to work alongside him and grateful for the lasting impact he continues to make.
He is, without a doubt, a true LifeChanger.
I am a parent of 2 promoted Coyotes from camp Mohave elementary, and 1 currently enrolled. Through all the years my kids and I have nothing but amazing things to say about Mr.Cottrell. He greets the students every morning at parent drop off, whether it’s a wave and a smile or silly joke, those little gestures make a huge difference . He has a huge heart and passion for these kids. I’m sooooo grateful he was there for my girls and now my son.. my heart is going to break the day he retires, but so grateful for all the memories.
Since his beginning years as a classroom teacher in the late 90s and throughout his career, Rick Cottrell represents public educators who consistently provide a supportive and healthy school environment. He is an excellent listener who considers the student’s voice, all the while guiding towards a productive outcome. As a school leader, he proactively works with faculty and staff throughout each school day and year with unflagging energy and determination. Rick Cottrell exemplifies LifeChanger of the Year.
Mr. Cottrell is an amazing principal. Since we have been apart of CMES, he always greats every single kid and always shows positivity for them to have a great day. He’s created a very welcoming and caring environment for all the kids. We will be sad to have to leave him as it’s our last year here. We have been so lucky to have him.
Mr Cottrell is seriously amazing. He is so easy to go to for any issues you may have. Great problem solver with positive solutions. He’s such a great asset to this school and we’re proud he’s our kids principal.
Our family is excited to hear of this nomination. We believe Mr. Cottrell is deserving of this award.
One of many things that stood out to us during our first year at CMES is how he greets every student with a smile, high five and addressing each student by name. He is friendly, caring & makes sure each student feel seen.
Good Luck Mr. Cottrell!!
