Regular Governing Board Meeting with Executive Session 4/22/2026

The Cartwright School District #83 held its regular governing board meeting with an executive session on April 22, 2026. Key procurement-related discussions included concerns raised by a community member about consulting fees paid to Jacob Chavez and Zeke OJ, with requests for transparency regarding quotes and scopes of work for these consultants. The board also discussed revised salary placements for executive administrators and assistant superintendents, highlighting questions about salary schedules and contract transparency. Dr. Ethridge presented proposed increases to support staff (ESP) hours, which would cost approximately $2.1 million, with upcoming budget meetings planned to review these impacts and consider salary schedule adjustments. Additionally, the board reviewed the Arizona School Board Association's 2026 political agenda priorities, which include funding for competitive salaries, capital improvements, and technology modernization. A settlement agreement related to a due process complaint was approved following the executive session. Several requests for future agenda items focused on procurement transparency and contract reviews. Overall, the meeting emphasized budgetary oversight, personnel contract management, and community engagement in district operations.