Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) has always held a special place in my heart. As a proud parent in this community, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication of teachers, the eagerness of students, and the vibrant culture within our schools. However, recent developments have deeply concerned me and many others who care about the future of our local education.

In an unprecedented move, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has taken over FWISD operations. While I understand the intentions might have been for improvement, the resulting changes have been nothing short of disastrous for our schools. Policies have been implemented without community input, decisions made without transparency, and our beloved schools are suffering as a result.

Statistics from a recent report indicate that since the takeover, teacher turnover in our district has increased by over 25%. This disruption affects not only the livelihood of professional educators but also the quality of education our children receive. Furthermore, students are forced into larger class sizes, diminishing their access to personalized learning and one-on-one support. According to the National Education Association, smaller class sizes are directly linked to improved student outcomes.

Moreover, the morale among students and parents has plummeted. Many people, including myself, feel out of touch with the decision-makers who now reside outside our community. We no longer have a voice in decisions that directly impact our children’s education. These changes are stifling the innovative and culturally responsive environment FWISD was known for.

I believe that it is crucial for state and local authorities to recognize the unique needs of our district and put power back into the hands of the local educators and parents who know our students best. We need a collaborative, transparent approach that truly listens and responds to the needs of our students and community.

By signing this petition, you support a call to action for a reassessment of the TEA’s current management of FWISD schools. We demand the restoration of local control, transparency in decision-making, and policies that directly involve and benefit our community. Stand with me to advocate for a system where our voices matter. Please sign this petition to make a difference for our children’s future, ensuring our schools continue to be the nurturing environments they once were.