Fort Worth schools are seeing brighter numbers from the TEA—but don’t let that overshadow a vital truth: many students still struggle with reading. A recent Star‑Telegram piece reminds families to ask for real reading data—not just A‑F grades—in order to hold systems accountable and drive meaningful literacy progress.

At Grade Level invites families and partners to join our efforts this year in making early reading outcomes visible and actionable. Want support framing questions for school leaders or tools to track your child’s literacy growth? We’ve got you covered!

Fort Worth Reading Scores Are Rising, But Not All Students Are Moving Forward

Fort Worth saw its first uptick in STAAR proficiency since 2022, with 37% of students now meeting grade-level expectations, just 2 points shy of the pre‑pandemic norm. Fort Worth ISD led the charge, delivering a 6-point gain in reading scores, particularly in higher-need schools.

But not all neighborhoods are moving forward; some City Council districts still have fewer than half of students reading on grade level. Our progress is a sign of what’s possible when communities and schools unite, but also a reminder that equity must be the guiding principle in every step forward.

Parents and children released black and green balloons during a Parent Shield–hosted event in Fort Worth — a symbolic gesture of hope for improved reading rates across the city.    More than half of Fort Worth students still aren’t reading on grade level. Our kids deserve better — and it will take all of us to lift literacy higher. Check your child’s reading level and get free resources!

Grapevine Colleyville: Progress? Barely. In 2025, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD reading scores crept up just 1%—from 71% to 72%. That means 1 in 4 students still can’t read at grade level. The problem isn’t fixed. It’s just lingering. ‘Parents deserve the full picture. See how your ISD stacks up!