Meet Our Team

Meet the 2024-2026 Cartwright Education Association (CEA) Executive Board

Laurie Richards

CEA President
Email: [email protected]

My name is Laurie Richards and I am proud to be the President of Cartwright Education Association.  I am an Arizona native and the proud mother to my amazing daughter.  I was born and raised in Tucson and moved to the Phoenix area in 1996 to complete my bachelor's degree in Anthropology from ASU.  Post graduation, I earned my teaching certification, and later a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and my Principalship.   I have worked in education in Arizona for over 24 years from being an ESP to an Administrator.  It is my goal and focus as the President to strive to represent ALL employees, build and utilize consistent communications and follow all policies and procedures to collaborate with our members and stakeholders.  

Betsy Brian

        For the past 25 years, I have had the privilege of working in education, spanning three school districts across different states. My family has grown and dispersed across the United States, making travel and exploring new places a cherished pastime. As I embark on this new position, I eagerly anticipate the collaboration between Cartwright School District 83 and the Cartwright Education Association. 
      I extend my best wishes to everyone starting anew. It is a moment to reflect on gratitude, build on existing foundations, and envision future growth. With the dawn of a new school year, I encourage everyone to consider their impact on the world—whether for students, community, association, or personal growth. 
       Both my son and I are alumni of Cartwright School District, and my journey includes recognition as the 2017 ESP of the Year in Nevada, six years as ECSSO president, and various roles supporting veterans and community initiatives. I find joy in road trips, my dog, literature like "The Great Gatsby," bodies of water, and visits to Sonic restaurants. As I reflect on these experiences, I'm reminded of the wisdom: "Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine."
Vice President
Email: [email protected]

Jessica Frink

My name is Jessica Frink and I am the CEA secretary. This is my 19th year of being a public school educator teaching grades from K-6. I’ve been a member of education associations for many years and excited to jump into the other side from just being a member. I have served on meet and confer and attended the delegate assembly. I am here to advocate for all members and to make CEA stronger together. 

Outside of school I’m  also a mom to 2 wonderful adult kids and 1 kid in high school. I have 2 dogs and 2 cats of my own. I love doing crafts and hanging out with my kids. ​
Secretary
Email: [email protected]

​Leslee Sowards-Abel

Treasure
Email: [email protected]

Cesar Cota

My name is Cesar Cota. I have had the pleasure of  working with Cartwright School District for the past 10 years. Specifically at  Pena Elementary School, yes, the same school for all 10 years.  I am an Education Support Professional. My jobs at Pena Elementary School are school crossing guard, school monitor , and custodial assistant during the summer session . I  have had the privilege of being involved with several different education committees at the local level with CEA as well as with the state level with the  Arizona  Education Association. It is my honor to serve  as Education Support Professional Director at the Executive Board of the Cartwright Education Association.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me about any concerns you may have at your school site.
ESP Director
​Email: [email protected]

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Tori Moloney

​CEA Membership
Email: [email protected]

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