The Winslow Unified School District Governing Board reviewed its annual audit report at its regular meeting last Wednesday. Superintendent Dr. Amber Martinez emphasized the district remains on solid financial footing even as enrollment continues to trend downward and chronic absenteeism remains a persistent challenge.

Martinez noted that district reserves have climbed significantly over the last five years, rising from roughly $1.5 million in 2021 to about $4.8 million today. During the discussion, she credited Business Manager Casey Hancock for steady budgeting and year-end carryover.

“Casey has done a great job of giving us a large carry over each year,” Martinez said. “We’re in a totally good position, everything’s good.”

The board also reviewed information tied to the Arizona Auditor General’s January 2026 school district financial risk analysis report, which indicated Winslow Unified is not considered a high-risk or medium-risk district.

During the meeting the board also recognized January employees of the month. The classified honoree was Andrew Balderrama, Winslow High School bookkeeper, who was credited in his nomination for extensive planning work and long hours supporting the Doc Wright Tournament. The certified honoree was Chloe Proxee, a second-grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School, described in her nomination as a first-year teacher who has maintained high expectations while helping students show significant growth.

In other discussion items, the board heard plans related to a job description for elementary physical education (PE), as principals explore incorporating a dedicated PE program alongside existing enrichment offerings such as music, art, library and band. Superintendent Martinez mentioned that with the amount of time children watch screens at home the district should prioritize more movement into the days of their students.

In other business, the board:

* Approved new hires: Darrion Chambers, high needs paraprofessional; Sophia Cano, high needs paraprofessional and Zachary Atchison, inclusion paraprofessional.

* Approved the resignation of Deborah Hoover, district substitute.

* Approved transferring Stephanie Westover from emergency substitute to inclusion paraprofessional.

* Approved Chloe Wilcox as assistant softball coach, Bryan Larson as baseball head coach and Zach Atchison as baseball assistant coach.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 18.