Fort Worth ISD Takeover Possible After Repeated Failing Scores Trigger State Review

Parents and Educators React as State Scrutiny Intensifies Over Academic Performance

As summer break settles in and classrooms fall quiet, a storm of concern is brewing over the future of Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD). With academic performance under intense scrutiny and state officials signaling possible intervention, many in the community are wondering what lies ahead for one of Texas’ largest school districts.

Growing Concerns Among Parents and Residents

Parents across Fort Worth are watching closely as talk of a potential state takeover grows louder. For local resident and parent Red Sanders, the situation is about more than individual campuses — it's about the wellbeing of the entire community.

“We want what’s best for our kids, not just at their individual schools but across the entire district,” Sanders said. “This affects the future of our neighborhoods and the quality of education for thousands of children.”

The rising concern stems from recent remarks made by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who hinted at the possibility of state intervention. His comments emphasized the need for leadership that prioritizes results over local politics — a sentiment that has stirred debate among educators, parents, and policymakers alike.

State Takeovers Have a Precedent

The idea of a state-led intervention is not new in Texas. Just last year, Houston Independent School District was placed under state control, prompting backlash after drastic changes were made — including the controversial removal of 28 school libraries that were converted into disciplinary centers.

Such actions have made many Fort Worth residents wary of similar outcomes should the Texas Education Agency (TEA) step in.

Alarming Accountability Ratings Spark Action

The TEA recently released its latest performance ratings for FWISD, drawing attention to ongoing academic struggles. One of the most alarming findings was at the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Sixth Grade, which received an “F” rating for the fifth consecutive year. Under Texas law, this marks a critical threshold — triggering either mandatory school closure or the appointment of a state-managed board to oversee operations.

These developments have raised concerns among elected officials like State Representative Aicha Davis, who previously served six years on the State Board of Education. Davis, who closely followed the Houston ISD takeover, voiced concern about the morale of educators and the challenges faced by transient student populations.

“Morale is way down among teachers. They’re frustrated and exhausted,” she said. “Fort Worth has a very diverse and mobile student body. That requires strategic, well-supported interventions — not just blanket reforms.”

Calls for Balance and Alternatives

Despite the tension, some in the community believe there may be a middle ground between maintaining full local control and a total state takeover. A hybrid solution or partial intervention model has been suggested by several parents and education advocates, who hope the district is given an opportunity to improve with support rather than punishment.

“Maybe there's a path forward that doesn’t require completely removing local control,” Sanders said. “We need solutions that strengthen our schools, not just reset them.”

A District at a Crossroads

As the TEA weighs its options, Fort Worth ISD finds itself in a pivotal moment. The decisions made in the coming weeks and months could reshape the district’s future — for better or worse. For now, parents, teachers, and students are left waiting, hoping for a solution that puts children’s education first while respecting the unique challenges and character of Fort Worth’s schools.

Whether the state steps in or FWISD is given a chance to right its course, one thing is clear: the eyes of Texas are watching closely.