Texas Education Agency Assumes Control of Fort Worth ISD
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has announced a significant intervention in the Fort Worth Independent School District (ISD). Commissioner Mike Morath revealed that the TEA will dissolve the district’s elected board members and might install a new superintendent to manage operations.
Reasons for State Intervention
This decision stems from the ongoing academic struggles within the district. A Fort Worth campus has failed to meet Texas’ academic accountability standards for five consecutive years. As a response, the TEA is compelled by state laws to take action.
Despite the closure of the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Sixth Grade at the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year, Morath had indicated earlier that this would not prevent potential state intervention.
Background on Fort Worth ISD
The district is one of five in Texas currently facing the threat of state takeover due to poor performance. The others include Beaumont, Connally, Lake Worth, and Wichita Falls ISDs. Each of these districts has also received five consecutive failing grades at various schools.
Official Statements
In a statement from Fort Worth ISD, officials acknowledged reports of the impending state action. They emphasized their priority remains on ensuring uninterrupted learning for students and expressing gratitude for the commitment of their educators and staff.
Impact of State Takeovers in Texas
State takeovers occur under specific conditions. A district is subject to intervention if any of its schools receive failing grades from the TEA for five continuous years. In such cases, the agency can replace elected school boards with state-appointed managers.
With Fort Worth ISD’s takeover, this marks the 11th instance of state intervention in Texas school districts since 2000. The most notable case includes the Houston Independent School District, which continues to be overseen by the state until 2027.
Current Status of Other Districts
Morath visited Lake Worth ISD recently, highlighting the issues facing that district. The Marilyn Miller Language Academy there has received five consecutive F ratings, indicating severe academic challenges.
The potential intervention in Fort Worth ISD is poised to be one of the largest state takeovers in Texas history. As the TEA continues to address these academic failures, the focus remains on improving educational outcomes for all students involved.
