All fans of Phil are welcome to gather at Webster Elementary School on Saturday, March 7, to celebrate the gifts of friendship and leadership that he bestowed on Malibu and all who knew him. “Mr. Cott” passed away in early February.
In addition to Cott’s 23 years as Webster’s much-admired principal, he led the developing Malibu Elementary School on an interim basis during the critical Woolsey Fire term, and was involved in other communities, as well. He and his family – including wife Charlee, their daughter, son and two grandchildren – forged roots in West L.A. and Culver City.
Webster’s Poet’s Park and many other projects were conceived and created under Cott’s leadership, including the Gardening Angels program, the original computer lab, the fourth-grade trip to Astrocamp, and the fifth-grade week in Yosemite. A fund is being established in Cott’s name, and some of his famous neckties will be offered, in support of the cause.
The memorial program will start at 2:00, with a video loop of photos and remembrances beginning at 1:00. Many improvements to the campus will be readily visible, including the grass field, which replaced asphalt during Cott’s reign, and on which the gathering will be held. Dress is comfortable and casual, with playful neckties – in Phil’s characteristic style – encouraged!
On-site parking is extremely limited. There will be a drop-off area on campus, but, to minimize congestion, carpools and Lyft/Uber are strongly suggested. There are currently no off-site parking/shuttle arrangements.
Former students are invited to decorate paper neckties, which will enliven the celebration site. Templates can be procured and submitted through the offices of Webster, Malibu Middle School and Malibu High School. At the memorial, attendees will also have the opportunity to record brief video remembrances for the family.