Meet Ashley Cotton - TK/K Lead Teacher at Scholarship Prep Oceanside

When Ashley Cotton joined Scholarship Prep Oceanside in 2020, she stepped into a world of hybrid learning and digital innovation. What began as a year of adapting to distance learning quickly evolved into a journey of leadership, mentorship, and student-first teaching.

A Teacher’s Journey: From First-Year Educator to Lead TK/K Teacher

Looking back, Cotton reflects on the biggest surprise in her teaching evolution: her reliance on Google Slides. “Honestly, I never thought I’d use them as much as I do now,” she says. “Distance learning really pushed me to get creative with digital tools, and now, I can’t imagine teaching without them!” This adaptability has defined her approach, blending foundational teaching with modern tools to keep students engaged.

As a lead teacher, Cotton has expanded her role beyond the classroom, guiding fellow educators and fostering a collaborative team environment.

“Before, it was all about making sure my students were doing well, but now it's about making sure the whole team is working together and thriving,” she shares. “It’s been a fun change, learning how to support others as much as I support my students.”

A Commitment to Play, Learning, and Lifelong Skills

For Cotton, early childhood education isn’t just about academics, it’s about building a foundation through play. 

“Play is how young kids learn best. Through play, they develop critical skills like problem-solving, creativity, and social interaction, all while having fun,” she explains.

Her belief in nurturing both academic and social-emotional skills is evident in the lesson she hopes every student carries with them through eighth grade: “The Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Moments That Matter: The Impact of Teaching

Every teacher has an unforgettable “aha” moment, and for Cotton, it was the day a struggling kindergartener finally clicked with reading.

“He had been struggling for a while, but then one day, he picked up a book and started reading the words on his own,” she recalls. “The look on his face when it all came together was awesome! It reminded me of why I love teaching; seeing those little breakthroughs and knowing that I’m helping them gain a skill they’ll carry with them for life.”

Teaching is unpredictable, and Kindergarten is no exception. Cotton recalls a moment when her projector light went out mid-lesson. “I had to completely ditch my Google Slides and transition songs,” she laughs. “Instead, I grabbed a handheld speaker, used chart paper for visuals, and sang along with the kids for transitions. It was a good reminder that sometimes, even without all the tech, creativity can still get the job done!”

Beyond the Classroom: Creativity and Inspiration

Outside of teaching, Cotton finds inspiration in unexpected places—including TikTok.

“I use it for everything—teaching strategies, wedding planning, DIY projects,” she says. “It’s my favorite place for inspiration and a fun way to switch things up outside of school.” With her own wedding on the horizon, her free time is a mix of wedding planning, online shopping, and enjoying a well-earned break.

With her dedication to both students and fellow educators, Cotton continues to shape the TK and Kindergarten experience at Scholarship Prep Oceanside. Her journey from first-year teacher to lead educator is a testament to the power of adaptability, collaboration, and a deep passion for early education.