Jaidon Cotton shined on stage at Destrehan High School and was showcased in many of the school’s productions, but he also found the time to serve on the Student Advisory Council, Superintendent’s Advisory Council, the Executive Artistic Board, historian of the National English Honor Society, Spanish Club and as a Wildcat Mentor.
How does he have the time? Cotton said it has a lot to do with prioritizing.
“There were several times the activities I was involved in overlapped and/or required me to miss class time,” he said. “I had to ensure that I was on top of my work while preparing myself for the activities I took part in.”
Cotton said he thoroughly enjoyed taking part in both the Student Advisory Council and Superintendent’s Advisory Council.
“Both of these wonderful opportunities allowed me to voice my opinions and make changes that would be seen throughout Destrehan High School as well as the entirety of the St. Charles Parish school system,” he said.
With theatre, Cotton loved being able to be someone different. He called it exciting to personify a written character and step out of his comfort zone. He said his favorite role was playing the Scarecrow in the “Wizard of Oz” when he was in 11th grade.
“That being said, I was drawn to theatre by my older brother,” he said. “I watched him perform in a play when I was about seven years old and I was intrigued ever since.”
Cotton was also active with the Wetland Watchers after his 8th grade science teacher, Barry Guillot, encouraged him to participate in the program.
“I would volunteer to hold and speak about animals at science nights around the St Charles Parish school system,” he said. “Additionally, I started to volunteer with Swamp School in 9th grade and have continued to help out every year since.”
At his church, Cotton would volunteer during many community outreach events every year. He’s been helping with these since he was 10 years old.
“Some of these events include the back to school rally, Black History Month program, and Christmas theatrical productions,” he said. “Furthermore, I am a part of the usher board, media team and choir.”
Cotton said Destrehan High School is filled with teachers, administrators and monitors who want the best for the students there.
“When I walked through those doors every day, I felt encouraged and at home,” he said.
Cotton is now set to attend LSU, where he will major in broadcast journalism.
“I hope to become a news reporter as well as broaden my horizon in film acting,” he said.
