Who is impacted?

African-American students in the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) are being disproportionately affected by the inequitable distribution of federal ESSER III funds. These students have been subjected to systemic oppression and disadvantaged by oppressor-determined indicators and standardized performance metrics that fail to reflect their true potential and needs. The district's failure to allocate funds in past and current years equitably has resulted in these students continuing to struggle academically, further widening the racial achievement gap and perpetuating systemic inequities.

What is at stake?

If these discriminatory practices continue, African-American students in FWISD will face long-term academic setbacks, limiting their opportunities for future success and perpetuating cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement. Conversely, if immediate action is taken to rectify these funding inequities, all students could have equal access to the resources and support they need to succeed in present-day Texas. Equitable funding will help close the achievement gap, provide a fair learning environment, help address the school-to-prison pipeline of the carceral state, and uphold the principles of justice and equality in education.

Why is now the time to act?

The time to act is now because the academic regression of African-American students during the three-year disbursement period of $262 Million in ESSER funds highlights the “urgency of now”  for intervention. These funds are due to expire on September 30, 2024. Immediate action will address the current disparities and set a precedent for future equitable practices within FWISD and school districts nationwide. With the recent data revealing the extent of these inequities, we have a critical opportunity to demand change and ensure that all students receive the education they deserve. We must act swiftly to correct these injustices and promote a fair and inclusive educational environment for every student.

By signing this petition, we stand together in demanding that FWISD take immediate and effective actions to rectify these discriminatory practices in the distribution of ESSER III funding to ensure that all students, regardless of race, receive a fair and equitable education.

News Coverage 

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