Barbara Brewer, a substitute teacher and caregiver, is running for Place 6 on the Keller Independent School District (ISD) board. In her candidacy statement, Brewer emphasizes the need for data‑driven decisions, transparent use of bond funds, and protecting classroom resources for families across the district.
School‑consolidation concerns
Keller ISD plans to close Bear Creek, Parkwood Hill and Trinity Meadows intermediate schools after the 2026‑27 school year because of declining enrollment. Brewer says the current consolidation plan would move students into already crowded Fort Worth campuses and create a clear geographic divide along the Highway 377/railroad corridor. She argues that capacity, safety and educational needs must guide any future attendance‑boundary changes, and that meaningful community input should shape decisions about school closures and the use of district property.
Bond package stance
Voters will consider an $828 million bond package this year. Brewer acknowledges the size of the request but points out that Keller ISD has not had a bond since 2019, and facility needs have continued to grow. She supports the bond, citing critical upgrades to HVAC, safety, technology and other infrastructure. If the bond passes, Brewer says she will push for transparent spending and strong oversight. If any propositions fail, she would prioritize urgent needs and propose a more broken‑up bond to give voters clearer choices.
Addressing a potential budget shortfall
With a nearly balanced $346.1 million general‑fund budget for 2026‑27, Brewer says a shortfall would be addressed by cutting spending that does not affect the classroom. She would review administrative costs, contracts, staffing levels and programs to determine what works and what does not, while protecting teachers, staff and direct student services. Brewer also plans to advocate at the state level for fully funded mandates and enrollment‑based funding.
Academic focus
Brewer identifies raising reading proficiency as Keller ISD’s most pressing academic challenge. She wants measurable growth in reading scores, especially for students below grade level. Citing North Riverside Elementary’s success, she urges the board to identify effective strategies at high‑performing campuses and replicate them districtwide, providing the necessary resources and support.
Opposition to district split
In 2025, Keller ISD debated a proposal to split the district, which the board ultimately abandoned. Brewer strongly opposed the split, believing the community is stronger as one district. To rebuild trust, she promises to be visible across the district, listen to families and staff, communicate openly, and ensure every community has a voice before major decisions are made. She will ask questions publicly, explain her decisions and remain accessible even when disagreements arise.
Why voters should consider Brewer
Brewer frames her platform around three core principles: data‑driven decision‑making, fiscal responsibility and community engagement. She argues that these principles align with the values of Keller families who want safe schools, transparent use of taxpayer dollars and strong academic outcomes for their children. Voters who prioritize keeping classrooms funded, ensuring safe facilities and having a board member who will actively seek input from all neighborhoods may find Brewer’s approach compelling.
For more information, visit Brewer’s campaign website at brewerforkisd.com.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
