2/6/25 ReadRise newsletter

February 06, 2025

FEATURED NEWS

Fort Worth ISD intensifies focus on reading as trustees call on other Tarrant districts to join

 

Fort Worth ISD has declared a literacy crisis, linking low reading rates to poverty, crime, and economic struggles. At a January 21, 2025 news conference, Trustee Tobi Jackson emphasized the urgency, calling it a civic crisis that demands immediate action.

The Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution to achieve universal grade-level literacy, focusing on specific benchmarks, instructional support, rigorous evaluations, high-quality materials, teacher training, and parent progress reports. With two-thirds of students failing state reading tests, the district is urging all 20 Tarrant County school districts to join the effort.

The plan also addresses racial disparities, as Black and Latino students are among the lowest-performing groups. A new four-year strategy aims for 50% of third graders reading proficiently by 2029. City Council members stressed that improving literacy is vital for economic growth and attracting businesses.

Trustees called on the entire community—parents, mentors, and local leaders—to get involved. Trustee Michael Ryan summed it up: “This resolution is not just a slogan. It’s a promise.”

Read more here
 
 

Fort Worth ISD takes first step toward selecting permanent superintendent

 

Fort Worth ISD has taken its first step toward selecting a permanent superintendent before the 2025-26 school year. On Jan. 21, trustees voted unanimously to post the vacant superintendent position for a 10-day period starting Jan. 23. The motion, introduced by Trustee Michael Ryan and seconded by Vice President Anne Darr, does not specify whether the search will be internal or open to external candidates.

Interim Superintendent Karen Molinar, a 27-year district veteran, has led Fort Worth ISD since October 2024 following the resignation of Angélica Ramsey, who faced criticism over academic performance and leadership. Molinar, who previously served in various leadership roles, including interim superintendent in 2022, has expressed interest in applying for the permanent position.

Unlike other North Texas districts that use search firms, Fort Worth ISD has not announced plans to do so. The recent vote marks the first board action on the hiring process since Molinar’s appointment. She emphasized her familiarity with the district, stating, “I already know what we need to do.” Further details on the search process are expected in a district statement.

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Fort Worth ISD is looking to move money to reading programs. How will it be used?

Fort Worth ISD is reallocating funds to prioritize literacy after years of stagnant reading scores. The district’s five-year plan directs leaders to shift resources toward high-impact reading programs while also seeking more state funding. Deputy Superintendent Mohammed Choudhury stressed using “academic return on investment” to ensure spending improves outcomes.

A major initiative is a lab classroom model where veteran teachers mentor peers through real-time instruction, replacing delayed coaching cycles. The district is also piloting the Opportunity Culture model, where master teachers split time between teaching and coaching.

Following a January resolution making reading the top priority, Superintendent Karen Molinar outlined plans to create a literacy framework, align budgets with reading goals, and monitor progress. The push follows Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker’s call for urgent action, as recent NAEP results show less than half of Fort Worth ISD’s fourth and eighth graders read at a basic level.

Read more here
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