In a major development for education in North Texas, the Fort Worth ISD has now been placed under state control following an announcement by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on October 23, 2025. The move comes after persistent academic underperformance and triggers a governance overhaul for the district serving nearly 70,000 students.
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What the Takeover Means
The TEA will replace the district’s nine-member elected board of trustees with a state-appointed board of managers, as allowed under Texas law when certain schools earn failing ratings for five consecutive years.
Mike Morath, the TEA Commissioner, announced that he will also appoint a new superintendent and a conservator to oversee the district’s operations. He stated that the current superintendent may still be considered during the transition process.
Why the Intervention Happened
Several key factors triggered the takeover of the Fort Worth ISD:
- One campus of the district, the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak 6th Grade, received failing grades for five consecutive years, which under Texas law triggers the possibility of district-level intervention.
- During the 2022-23 academic year, many campuses in the district were graded “D” or “F.” While the number of failing campuses has declined from 31 to 11, several still show chronic academic struggles.
- Enrollment has dropped significantly, from more than 87,000 students in 2016 to fewer than 70,000 today, creating financial and operational challenges.
- Leadership instability has contributed to district struggles. The previous superintendent resigned in 2024 amid tensions with the board and community over the district’s future direction.
Immediate Impacts on the District
The state takeover of the Fort Worth ISD means major changes in governance and operations:
- The elected trustees will have their decision-making authority suspended once the new state-appointed board is seated.
- Applications for the board of managers are now open, and community members are encouraged to apply, though the final selection will be made by the TEA.
- As part of the transition, the TEA may restructure instructional programs, staffing, and potentially consider school consolidations if chronic underperformance continues.
- This marks the second-largest school district intervention in Texas history, following the earlier state takeover of the Houston Independent School District.
What’s Next for Parents and Students
For families within the Fort Worth ISD:
- Expect direct communication from the district in the coming days regarding how governance changes will affect local schools. Officials have emphasized that learning and daily school operations will continue without interruption.
- Watch for announcements about the appointment of the new superintendent and board members, as these decisions will shape the district’s future.
- Students and teachers may see changes in academic programs, new curriculum priorities, and additional support services aimed at improving overall student outcomes.
- Community members interested in applying for the new board of managers can do so through the TEA’s application process.
Historical Context
The takeover of Fort Worth ISD marks the 11th state intervention in a Texas school district since 2000. Previous takeovers have produced mixed outcomes—some districts have seen improved accountability and performance, while others have faced prolonged challenges. The TEA has stated that such interventions are intended as temporary measures to stabilize operations, improve academic standards, and ultimately return governance to elected trustees once consistent improvement is achieved.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| District | Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) |
| Students Served | Nearly 70,000 |
| Trigger for Takeover | Campus failed 5 consecutive years under Texas A–F accountability ratings |
| Governance Change | Elected board replaced by state-appointed board of managers |
| State Official | TEA Commissioner Mike Morath |
| Significance | Second-largest district takeover in Texas history |
Community and Leadership Reaction
District leaders expressed disappointment over the takeover but reaffirmed their commitment to students, families, and staff. They emphasized that the focus must remain on improving academic performance and restoring trust in local schools.
Community members are divided—some view the move as necessary for accountability and reform, while others argue that local control is essential for meaningful, long-term improvement. Business and civic leaders in Fort Worth have called for unity and collaboration during the transition period, urging residents to stay engaged and informed as the new leadership structure takes shape.
The announcement represents a turning point for the Fort Worth ISD and its community. As the district undergoes this state-led transformation, the focus remains on how effectively the new leadership can rebuild trust, strengthen academic outcomes, and ensure every student receives the quality education they deserve.
Share your thoughts on the state’s decision and what changes you believe are most important for the future of Fort Worth ISD.