State Sen. Phil King is raising concerns over ongoing academic failures in Fort Worth ISD, suggesting that a full replacement of the school board may be necessary.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) notified Fort Worth ISD in May that state intervention is required due to persistent underperformance at a now-closed campus. This issue could lead to a district-wide takeover or further school closures.
During a Texas Senate Education Committee hearing on Wednesday, King questioned TEA Commissioner Mike Morath about the timeline for action, according to CBS News.
“We are actively evaluating that decision now,” Morath replied. “I’ve had multiple interactions with the leadership team in Fort Worth. I’ll be going back and doing some on-site visits as soon as school starts up. I want to get a good basis for the facts on the ground. We’re also analyzing other factors.”
King responded, saying, “Well, they are still, as I understand it, the lowest-performing large school district in the state. I’ve got more Fort Worth ISD than any senator. And I just don’t know what the right decision is, but if I had to bet today, it’s replacing the board.”
Fort Worth ISD released a statement addressing the senator’s comments.
“Fort Worth ISD is aware of the recent comments made during the Senate Education Committee hearing regarding potential intervention by the Texas Education Agency. Commissioner Morath has met with district leadership and plans to return in September as part of an ongoing evaluation process. We appreciate the Commissioner’s commitment to a thoughtful and student-centered approach, and we will continue to work collaboratively with him and his team.”