Fort Worth ISD’s Plan to Address Reading Achievement Gaps
Fort Worth, Texas – In an effort to tackle the ongoing challenges surrounding low reading scores, the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) has rolled out a new comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing literacy across all grade levels. This strategic resolution marks a commitment by district officials to bolster reading proficiency among students, with a particular emphasis on younger learners. Additionally, the district is in the process of seeking a new superintendent to guide these initiatives forward.
Literacy as a Priority
The recent decision made by the FWISD school board underscores a renewed focus on literacy within the district. During a meeting held on a Tuesday night, board members voted to adopt a resolution prioritizing literacy and approved a new strategic plan aimed at addressing the reading challenges facing students. The district has set a goal to increase the percentage of third graders reading at grade level from the current 32% to at least 50% by 2029.
Strategic Plan Overview
The new strategic plan, presented by the interim superintendent, lays out a five-step approach for improving literacy from pre-k through to 12th grade. This inclusive plan aims to create a structured pathway that supports students at various levels of reading proficiency. Prior to the meeting, a press conference was held, featuring school board members, city councilors, and parent advocates, all reinforcing the vital role of literacy education and the district’s commitment to the initiative.
Reflections on Previous Commitments
During public comment sessions, concerns were raised regarding the similarities between the current efforts and past initiatives. Specifically, a literacy advocate noted that the board had previously made a similar promise in 2017, which aimed for 100% of students to read at grade level by the year 2025. The advocate stressed the need for persistent and relentless approaches to this goal, reiterating the importance of returning to a state of urgency in promoting literacy.
Comments from Leadership
Interim Superintendent Dr. Karen Molinar provided insights into the district’s vision for literacy. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that students progress through grades with the necessary reading skills, asserting, “By 2029 or before, a ninth grader should be a ninth grader. A tenth grader should be a tenth grader.” Molinar subsequently outlined how the district would align its budgets and resources toward strengthening literacy frameworks in the district.
Acknowledging Past Challenges
The school board acknowledged the shortcomings of earlier attempts to rectify reading deficits within the district. They indicated that the current approach would differ from past strategies because it would rely more heavily on internal processes rather than external assistance from outside organizations. This change reflects a shift in philosophy intended to better engage and support the district’s faculty and students.
Next Steps for the District
In addition to revitalizing reading programs, the board also discussed the hiring of a new superintendent, a decision made during a closed executive session. The urgency to fill this position was clear, as the vacancy is slated to be advertised starting January 23 for ten days. The district aims to have the new leader in place by the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, which could provide fresh insights and energy to support the ambitious literacy goals set forth.
Conclusion
The Fort Worth ISD’s strategic plan for improving literacy presents a proactive approach to address the challenges associated with low reading scores among students. With firm commitments to prioritize literacy education and the introduction of a fresh leadership structure, the district aims to significantly raise the percentage of students reading at grade level over the next several years. The dedication to addressing these educational gaps reflects a desire to ensure that every student has the foundational skills necessary for academic success and future opportunities.
FAQs
What specific goals has the FWISD set for improving reading scores?
The district aims to increase the percentage of third graders reading at grade level from 32% to 50% by the year 2029.
How does the new strategic plan differ from previous initiatives?
Unlike past strategies that often involved external organizations, the new plan emphasizes internal processes and supports, reflecting a stronger commitment from the district’s faculty and administration.
When will the position of superintendent be filled?
The hiring process for a new superintendent is set to commence on January 23 and is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
What are some of the components of the five-step approach outlined in the plan?
The detailed components of the five-step approach have not been disclosed publicly, but the overall emphasis will be on creating structured literacy pathways from pre-k through high school.
How are community members involved in this initiative?
Community engagement has been prioritized, with public comment sessions and press conferences held to involve parents, city officials, and advocacy groups in reinforcing the importance of literacy efforts within the district.