Fort Worth schools have shown modest gains on state reading and math exams, but still lag behind Tarrant County and Texas averages. According to a Fort Worth Education Partnership analysis of preliminary state testing data, schools within Fort Worth city limits increased 2 percentage points in math and 1 point in reading on the spring 2026 STAAR.
Progress, But Still a Long Way to Go
While the results show a familiar pattern of measurable improvement, the academic gaps that have plagued Fort Worth schools for years remain. Fewer than half of Fort Worth students met grade level in either subject, with 36% meeting grade level in math and 47% in reading.
Brent Beasley, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Education Partnership, said the gains reflect the work of educators, district leaders, and community groups focused on improving student achievement. However, he noted that the progress should not obscure disparities within the city, particularly in third-grade reading, where Black students’ achievement declined.
Fort Worth ISD, the city’s largest school district, posted some of the strongest growth in the county, improving 6 percentage points in math and 3 points in reading. Lake Worth ISD, another Tarrant County district under state intervention, saw even larger math growth, increasing 9 percentage points.
Despite these gains, both districts remain well below state averages. Beasley emphasized the need to continue working together to resolve the academic gaps and ensure all Fort Worth students have the opportunity to succeed.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
