State Senator Proposes Overhaul of Fort Worth ISD Board as TEA Reviews District's Future Amid Persistent Academic Struggles

Ongoing Evaluation of Fort Worth ISD

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is currently assessing the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), and Republican state Senator Phil King has expressed his opinion on what he believes should be done if the decision were up to him. During a recent meeting, King stated that if he had to make a choice today, he would replace the school board.

In May, the TEA informed FWISD that the state may take over district operations or close a middle school due to five consecutive years of failing academic ratings. Specifically, the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak 6th Grade received its fifth consecutive "unacceptable" academic rating for the 2022–2023 school year. This has raised concerns among state officials and local leaders about the district's performance and the well-being of students.

During a Texas Senate Education Committee meeting, King asked TEA Commissioner Mike Morath for a timeline regarding the evaluation of FWISD. Morath responded by stating that the evaluation is ongoing, with multiple interactions already taking place with district leadership. He also mentioned plans for onsite visits once the school year begins, aiming to gather more information and understand the situation on the ground.

King acknowledged that FWISD is the lowest performing large school district in the state. He admitted that while he is not sure about the right decision, he would consider replacing the board if given the opportunity.

Response from Fort Worth ISD

Fort Worth ISD released a statement to CBS News Texas, addressing the recent comments made during the Senate Education Committee hearing. The district noted that Commissioner Morath has met with leadership and plans to return in September as part of an ongoing evaluation process. They appreciated the Commissioner's commitment to a thoughtful and student-centered approach and emphasized their dedication to working collaboratively with him and his team.

The district highlighted that Commissioner Morath is still considering all available information and has not yet made a decision. They remain focused on doing what is best for students and are actively implementing strategies to improve outcomes. They also welcomed the opportunity to demonstrate the progress they are making.

Legal Requirements for State Intervention

Under Texas Education Code § 39A.111, five consecutive failing ratings trigger mandatory state intervention. The commissioner must either appoint a board of managers to oversee the district or order the closure of the campus. The Leadership Academy at Forest Oak 6th Grade has not earned an acceptable academic rating since the 2014–2015 school year, meaning eight consecutive sixth-grade cohorts have attended the school while it has been rated academically unacceptable.

Literacy Resolution and Student Performance

Earlier this year, Fort Worth ISD and city leaders passed a literacy resolution aimed at helping more students read at grade level. Literacy rates have been described by local officials as a civic crisis, with only 43% of students currently meeting grade-level standards.

Commissioner Morath emphasized the importance of public schools in ensuring students grow academically and are prepared to be engaged, productive citizens. He stressed that schools must be safe and loving environments that teach academic knowledge and skills successfully. He acknowledged that no school system leader desires anything but student success, but if that desire does not translate into actual learning, changes must be made.

Final Thoughts from Commissioner Morath

Morath reiterated that he is not certain about the right decision and is going through a thorough process to determine the best course of action to support students in Fort Worth. He added that there will be a resolution one way or the other this fall. His comments reflect the ongoing concern and commitment to improving educational outcomes for students in the district.