PAWS at Cottonwood
Apr 25, 2025
The PAWS Experience at Cottonwood Elementary
Students at Cottonwood can "purchase" fun activities using their PAWS Bucks. PAWS Bucks are earned by demonstrating respect, responsibility, safety, and kindness.
Students earn PAWS Bucks by meeting behavioral expectations in classrooms, hallways, recess, lunch, and restrooms. Students are rewarded with PAWS Bucks when staff see positive behaviors.
Students can view a menu of activity options with "prices" listed. On the day of the PAWS Experience, students spend their bucks to participate in the activity they’ve chosen.
Cottonwood Principal, Michelle Siguenza, explained, “Having our PAWS Experience gives students choice and a sense of ownership over their rewards. It reinforces the value of positive behavior and delayed gratification. And it provides a fun, inclusive atmosphere where every student can celebrate success.”
Examples of Activities include:
-Art & Crafts (15 bucks)
-Games – Board games, card games, or computer game time (20 bucks)
-Movie (25 bucks)
-Outdoor Play (15 bucks)
-Cutting Boards (30 bucks)
-Sports Zone (10 bucks)
Mrs. Siguenza shared, “One of our most popular activities is making cutting boards. The cutting board activity sells out QUICKLY! Kindergarten Teacher, Mr. Marshall, has developed a lesson that teaches basic woodworking skills, design thinking, and safety procedures—all while creating something functional and beautiful.”
