The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has officially taken control of the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), marking a significant shift in the district’s governance and operations. This decision, announced by Commissioner Mike Morath, follows months of scrutiny regarding the academic performance of certain Fort Worth ISD campuses. The takeover, which involves replacing the elected board members and potentially appointing a new superintendent, is one of the largest in Texas history, second only to the Houston ISD takeover. This article delves into the reasons behind the TEA’s intervention, the potential impacts on the district, and the reactions from the community.
For parents, students, and residents of Fort Worth, understanding the implications of this takeover is crucial. The TEA’s involvement aims to address long-standing academic deficiencies and improve student outcomes across the district. However, it also raises questions about local control, community representation, and the future direction of Fort Worth ISD. Stay with FYM News as we break down the key details and provide comprehensive coverage of this developing story.
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Why the TEA Took Over Fort Worth ISD
The TEA’s decision to take over Fort Worth ISD stems from a history of academic underperformance at several campuses within the district. Specifically, Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Sixth Grade failed to meet academic accountability standards for five consecutive years. Although the district closed the school at the end of the 2023-24 school year, Commissioner Morath stated that intervention was still necessary.
In a letter to the district, Morath cited data indicating that approximately 34% of students across all grades and subjects are not performing at grade level on Texas’ standardized exams. Additionally, 20 campuses have been deemed “academically unacceptable” for multiple years. Morath asserted that the current school board had “failed the students of Fort Worth ISD” through both action and inaction.
“The inability of the district to implement effective changes to improve the performance of students in the district or at the campus necessitates the interventions announced by this letter,” Morath wrote. “Furthermore, the interventions are in the public interest as the failure of governance is demonstrated by the continual academic deficiencies at the campus and across the district.”
What Happens Now? A New Board and Superintendent
Commissioner Morath plans to appoint a new school board comprised of Fort Worth community members “who are committed to governing effectively to support positive change for the students of the district.” This appointed board will replace the current elected board members, signaling a complete change in the district’s leadership structure.
In addition to the new board, Morath will also appoint a new superintendent. Current superintendent Karen Molinar will be considered for the position, but there is no guarantee she will be retained. The TEA will also assign a conservator to ensure “the district supports its low-performing campuses and implements the district’s turnaround plans.”
Fort Worth ISD’s Reaction to the Takeover
The Fort Worth school district’s board of trustees expressed disappointment with the TEA’s decision, stating in a statement that it “is disappointed by the decision and hopes the matter will be reconsidered.” Board President Roxanne Martinez emphasized the efforts made over the past year to improve instruction and student outcomes.
“Over the past year, our Board and Administration have worked tirelessly to strengthen instruction and accelerate student outcomes,” Martinez said. “Our elected Board is in the best position to drive the sustainable improvements the Commissioner seeks, with measurable progress already underway.”
State Takeovers in Texas: A Growing Trend
Fort Worth ISD is now among 11 school districts in Texas that have been taken over by the state since 2000. This action is typically initiated when a school receives a failing grade from the TEA for five consecutive years. The state has the authority to replace elected school board members with state appointees and can also direct districts to close schools.
The largest state takeover occurred in Houston ISD, which has more than 183,000 students. That takeover, which began in 2023, was recently extended through 2027. The Houston ISD takeover has faced criticism from teachers and parents concerned about strict curriculum and overemphasis on test scores.
Lessons from Houston ISD: What to Expect
The Houston ISD takeover offers insights into potential changes that Fort Worth ISD might experience. Under the leadership of state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles, Houston ISD has implemented a strict curriculum and increased focus on standardized testing. This has led to significant staff turnover and concerns about the overall educational environment.
While Houston ISD has seen improvements in STAAR test scores and accountability ratings, these gains have come at a cost. The experiences in Houston raise important questions about the balance between academic improvement and community input in state-led interventions.
What This Means for Fort Worth Students and Parents
The TEA takeover of Fort Worth ISD will likely bring significant changes to the district. Parents and students should prepare for potential shifts in curriculum, teaching methods, and school leadership. It’s essential to stay informed about the changes and engage with the new school board and administration.
Given the concerns raised in Houston ISD, Fort Worth parents should advocate for community involvement and transparency in the decision-making process. The goal should be to ensure that the TEA’s interventions genuinely benefit students and reflect the values of the Fort Worth community.
The Future of Fort Worth ISD
The Texas Education Agency’s takeover of Fort Worth ISD represents a critical juncture for the district. While the intervention aims to address academic deficiencies and improve student outcomes, it also raises questions about local control and community representation. As the new school board and superintendent take over, it will be crucial for the community to stay engaged and advocate for the best interests of Fort Worth students.
FYM News will continue to provide in-depth coverage of this developing story. Stay tuned for updates, analysis, and perspectives from students, parents, and community leaders as Fort Worth ISD navigates this new chapter.
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