Public Hearing Followed By Regular Governing Board Meeting 6/24/2026

The Cartwright School District #83 held a public hearing and regular governing board meeting on June 24, 2026, primarily focused on the adoption and detailed presentation of the 2026-2027 annual expenditure and desegregation budgets. The meeting included extensive discussions on budget allocations across various funds such as maintenance and operations, capital projects, classroom site funds, and bond funds, with a total district budget estimated around $180-190 million. Board members debated transparency issues related to consultant contracts and voucher payments, with concerns raised about missing vouchers and the need for clearer reporting on consultant services and fees. The board also addressed staffing challenges, particularly in special education, and discussed the need for strategic planning facilitated by an experienced external consultant. Additionally, the meeting covered facilities maintenance issues, highlighting the need for increased custodial and maintenance staffing and preventive maintenance to address aging infrastructure. Several new policies related to staff leave and job sharing were adopted. A special governing board meeting was scheduled for July 29, 2026, to address open meeting law compliance following an Attorney General investigation. Votes were taken to adopt the budget and revised policies, with some board members abstaining or voting no due to transparency concerns.