Take a moment to meet our director!
Sarah Bates is a homegrown Tucsonan. As a military kid, she learned grit, hard work, and how to build a strong, supportive community to find success.
Sarah began her teaching career in the Vail Unified School District before becoming the principal of the district’s top-performing elementary school, Ocotillo Ridge. When asked to lead Cottonwood, she jumped right in with both feet, fiercely dedicated to helping her staff and students. Mrs. Bates had a clear vision for Cottonwood’s success. Within her first year of serving as principal, Cottonwood increased its state ranking from 499th to 14th, from a B rating to an A rating.
In that same year, the school improved in all 26 categories on the annual parent surveys, and every year, it has achieved an 85% or higher rating on the staff’s Protective School Assessment survey.
Mrs. Bates is excited to take on the new and exciting challenge of leading our Community Programs, which host highly rated Toddler, Preschool, Prekindergarten, and Out-of-School Time Care within our community.
When asked how Mrs. Bates manages to do it all—40 under 40 award recipient, PBIS Coach, and leader of an A+-rated school… the first thing she will say is, “We have an incredible team.”
A wife and mother of two boys, Mrs. Bates, is a fiercely determined, get your hands dirty, serve as if your life depends on it type of leader, mom, and friend.
Brittnnee Davis, Assistant Director
Work Phone: 520-879-2032
Email: davisbr@vailschooldistrict.org
Brittnnee Davis is a native of Tucson, Arizona, and a devoted wife and mother of three. With seven years of experience as a Special Education teacher in the Vail School District, she is passionate about fostering a love of learning and growth in the children and families she serves. Brittnnee is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers students to reach their full potential.
She deeply values family and cherishes the traits she has learned from the remarkable people who have shaped her life. Brittnnee believes that love and connection are among the most powerful aspects of existence and strives to embody these values in all she does.
Whether embarking on an adventure with friends and family, creating joyful chaos, or spreading love, Brittnnee's journey is centered on growth, connection, and making a positive impact on the community around her.