Cartwright School Board appoints Steve Watson as acting superintendent amid transparency concerns

In a recent Special Governing Board Meeting held on January 23, 2025, the Cartwright Elementary District faced significant discussions regarding governance and leadership appointments. The meeting, which included an executive session, highlighted concerns about transparency and compliance with state statutes among board members.

One of the key actions taken during the meeting was the approval of minimum qualifications for certain positions within the district. However, this decision was met with dissent from board member Jennifer Romero, who expressed concerns about the lack of community input and potential violations of Arizona Revised Statutes. Romero's objections were echoed by Denise Garcia, who also voted against the motion, citing ongoing compliance issues. Despite these concerns, the motion passed with a majority vote.

The board also appointed Steve Watson as the acting superintendent while the current interim superintendent is on administrative leave. This decision was similarly contentious, with Romero and Garcia voting against the appointment due to transparency issues and compliance concerns. Nonetheless, the motion carried, indicating a split among board members regarding the direction of district leadership.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which faced further division as Romero voted against it, reflecting her ongoing dissatisfaction with the proceedings. The next regular governing board meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2025, where these issues may continue to be addressed.

Overall, the meeting underscored a critical moment for the Cartwright Elementary District as it navigates leadership transitions and strives for greater transparency in its decision-making processes. The differing opinions among board members highlight the challenges faced in governance and the importance of community engagement in educational leadership.