Episode Details

Texas Takes Over Fort Worth ISD: New Leadership Aims to Improve Student Outcomes

In a significant move, Texas has appointed Peter Licata as the new superintendent and a nine-person Board of Managers to oversee the Fort Worth Independent School District. The takeover, effective March 24, 2026, was announced at a news conference in east Fort Worth, with leaders emphasizing urgency and a focus on students.

Licata, previously leading schools in Broward County, Florida, pledged transparency and accessibility during his tenure. He outlined plans for teacher training, enhanced accountability, and swift changes in administration, while minimizing disruptions on school campuses initially.

Local leaders, including Mayor Mattie Parker, acknowledged the districts challenges without assigning blame, expressing hope for improved student success across all schools. Key issues include 63% of students, approximately 40,000 kids, not reading at grade level, and 11 schools rated F academically, eight with three years of failures.

Board president Pete Geren stressed that student outcomes must be the top priority, declaring its go time for progress, similar to other districts. Leaders agree that politics and old habits hindered progress in the past, but now the focus is on placing top talent in key positions and rewarding results to elevate every child beyond basic standards.

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