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.

Improvements in Key Subjects

The gains come after years of declining academic performance that led to multiple superintendent changes and ultimately prompted state intervention. Fort Worth ISD outpaced statewide gains in key subjects, with a six-percentage-point increase in math performance and a three-percentage-point increase in reading compared with last year.

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.

Superintendent Peter Licata credited teachers, school leaders, and former Interim Superintendent Karen Molinar for the progress reflected in this year’s scores. "The folks that were here deserve the credit without a doubt, and I’m not going to encroach on that," Licata said.

Leadership Changes and Future Plans

The academic gains come as Fort Worth ISD undergoes significant leadership changes, with new leaders named at more than 30 campuses as state-appointed officials reshape school leadership following the TEA takeover. Licata’s leadership team is making "strategic realignments" and still finalizing principal and staff assignments.

Licata emphasized the importance of maintaining urgency to sustain the gains. "That’s a good question. We can’t be complacent or apathetic," he said.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.