Thatcher Unified School District board approves proposed 2026–27 expenditure budget

The Thatcher Unified School District governing board approved the proposed expenditure budget for the 2026–27 school year and passed the June 24 meeting agenda during a special meeting at the District Conference Center in Thatcher.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 a.m. by Board President Dr. Gary Sorensen, who led the Pledge of Allegiance. He noted that board members Susan Hancock and J. Travis Smith were absent and that Superintendent Matt Petersen was present.

Dr. Gary Sorensen moved to approve the meeting agenda dated June 24, 2026; Dr. Debbie Chapman seconded. The motion passed unanimously among those present (ayes recorded: Dr. Debbie Chapman, Kate McCluskey, Dr. Gary Sorensen).

The board then considered the proposed expenditure budget for the 2026–27 school year. Dr. Debbie Chapman moved to approve the submitted proposed expenditure budget; Kate McCluskey seconded. A roll call recorded Dr. Debbie Chapman—Yes, Kate McCluskey—Yes, and Dr. Gary Sorensen—Yes. The motion passed unanimously among the three members present. The transcript does not specify the total dollar amount or line-item allocations of the budget.

Board members announced the next regularly scheduled meeting for July 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the District Administrative Center, 3490 West Main Street, Thatcher, Arizona. With no further business, Dr. Gary Sorensen moved to adjourn at 7:01 a.m.; Dr. Debbie Chapman seconded, and the motion passed unanimously among those present.

The actions taken were routine approvals of the meeting agenda and the district’s proposed expenditure budget; the transcript records no amendments, conditions, or follow-up tasks tied to the budget approval.