Commissioner of TEA pays a visit to FWISD schools amidst impending state takeover decision

The Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) is facing a potential takeover by the state, with Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath at the helm. Morath visited three FWISD schools on Thursday to observe the educational environment, a move that underscores the seriousness of the situation.

FWISD has made progress in STAAR and accountability grades, but challenges remain. James and Leonard middle schools have received four consecutive failing grades, a concern that has caught the attention of Commissioner Morath. According to him, Texas law requires him to either close a school that's failed five consecutive years or replace the elected board of trustees.

If a takeover occurs, Morath plans to appoint both the board of managers and the superintendent simultaneously. This move is aimed at quickly stabilizing the district, a task that, in Morath's view, would have been avoided if local leadership had made the right, consistent decisions in the first place.

Brandon Hall, a State Board of Education member, has expressed encouragement for the effort of teachers in Fort Worth schools but has expressed uncertainty about Morath's decision. Hall emphasized the need to do what's best for the students in FWISD.

FWISD officials have preemptively closed the failing campus that triggered the law. However, the pearl white SUV, in which Morath, Molinar, and two other district leaders rode, will play a crucial role in determining the district's next direction.

In Houston, Morath replaced the superintendent and the trustees when the state took control in 2023. If a state takeover of FWISD occurs, one more failing grade would trigger the state's intervention law again.

During his visit, Commissioner Morath observed English teacher Nady Khalil guiding students through a poem. One student named Angelo, who immigrated to the United States from Uganda, recited the stanzas. The commissioner was accompanied by FWISD Superintendent Karen Molinar and a group of students. Superintendent Molinar welcomed the commissioner and appreciated him seeing students' progress firsthand.

If a takeover happens within the next three months, as stated by Commissioner Morath, it would mark the second-largest district takeover in Texas history. The implications for FWISD, its students, and the broader education system in Texas are significant and will be closely watched.

Commissioner of TEA pays a visit to FWISD schools amidst impending state takeover decision