Fort Worth ISD is reporting gains in reading and math performance on recent STAAR and spring assessments as state-appointed leaders continue efforts to improve academic outcomes following the Texas Education Agency takeover.<\/p>\n
The gains come after years of declining academic performance that led to multiple superintendent changes and ultimately prompted state intervention.<\/p>\n
As previously reported by The Dallas Express<\/a>, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath appointed Superintendent Peter Licata and a nine-member board of managers to oversee Fort Worth ISD, effective March 24. The same day, Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker described the district\u2019s challenges as \u201csobering\u201d in a public letter.<\/p>\n Parker noted that nearly one in three district schools was \u201cstruggling academically,\u201d while only one in three students could read at grade level. Fewer than one in five middle school students were projected to earn a degree or credential within six years of graduating from high school.<\/p>\n Academic Performance Improves<\/strong><\/p>\n Statewide, the percentage of students in grades 3-8 meeting grade-level standards increased by one percentage point in reading, language arts, and mathematics, while social studies scores increased by two percentage points, according<\/a> to WFAA.<\/p>\n Fort Worth ISD outpaced those statewide gains in key subjects. Data compiled by the Fort Worth Education Partnership showed the district recorded a six-percentage-point increase in math performance and a three-percentage-point increase in reading compared with last year.<\/p>\n \u201cGood momentum, but we\u2019re expecting big jumps, and that\u2019s what we\u2019re going to shoot for,\u201d Licata told WFAA.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n When asked how the district plans to sustain the gains, Licata said maintaining urgency will be critical.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s a good question. We can\u2019t be complacent or apathetic,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Licata also credited teachers, school leaders, and former Interim Superintendent Karen Molinar for the progress reflected in this year\u2019s scores.<\/p>\n \u201cThe folks that were here deserve the credit without a doubt, and I\u2019m not going to encroach on that,\u201d Licata said.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Fort Worth Education Partnership CEO Brent Beasley echoed that sentiment.<\/p>\n \u201cA couple of things. Just huge credit to school leaders and teachers in classrooms and Karen Molinar\u2019s leadership. FWISD saw growth both years under her leadership,\u201d Beasley told WFAA.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n
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