Fort Worth ISD has introduced an earned autonomy framework, granting eight of its schools greater control over their schedules, staffing, budgets, and daily operations. The schools, which include five specialized secondary schools and three neighborhood elementary schools, have earned this autonomy by achieving an overall A rating and an A in student achievement for three consecutive years.

What Does Earned Autonomy Mean?

The earned autonomy framework allows these schools to have more flexibility in their decision-making, while still following the district’s instructional model. The schools will have greater control over their master schedules, staffing models, budgets, and other daily operations. However, they must continue to deliver lessons under FWISD’s definition of “high-quality instruction” and will be evaluated using the same indicators as other schools.

According to Superintendent Peter Licata, the goal of the earned autonomy framework is to allow schools that have demonstrated sustained success to continue implementing the curriculum plans that have contributed to their success. “These schools have established a consistent record of high levels of student achievement and instructional excellence,” Licata said. “As a result, they have earned the opportunity to continue implementing the curriculum plans that have contributed to their success.”

Reaction from Teachers and Experts

Some teachers have expressed concerns about the earned autonomy framework, with one teacher stating that the word “earned” sounds like a judgment about their ability. However, experts such as Toni Templeton, a University of Houston professor who studies school systems and state interventions, believe that treating campuses differently during a takeover may be necessary. “I don’t think that the answer is lower the bar,” Templeton said. “I think that the answer is provide more support.”

Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.