safety
FWISD’s first takeover budget prioritizes academic achievement, leaders say
By Jacob Sanchez at Fort Worth Report
· June 24, 2026
· 4 min read
Dozens of hands shot up as Pete Geren, president of Fort Worth ISD’s board of managers, asked a question to the audience gathered Tuesday inside the District Service Center. Is reading a civil right? The belief that it is, Geren said, shaped the district’s nearly $1.1 billion budget for 2026-27. The
Key takeaway 8 million shortfall — was approved in an 8-0 vote, with manager Tennessee Walker absent.
Why this matters in The Fort Worth
The new budget's focus on academic achievement is a crucial step for Fort Worth ISD, given the district's history of underperformance. As the fifth-largest city in Texas, Fort Worth's educational outcomes have a significant impact on the entire Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The decision to have all eighth graders take algebra, eliminating seventh-grade math, will be closely watched by parents and educators across the city. With Texas Christian University, a major institution of higher learning, located in Fort Worth, the city has a vested interest in producing high school graduates who are well-prepared for college-level coursework. The budget's emphasis on reading proficiency is also noteworthy, as it acknowledges the fundamental importance of literacy in achieving academic success. As the district moves forward with its new budget, residents will be looking for tangible improvements in student outcomes, particularly in schools with the highest needs, to justify the increased spending and shortfall.
About this story
Original reporting by Fort Worth Report . The Fort Worth surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: safety ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: Fort Worth Report ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Dozens of hands shot up as Pete Geren, president of Fort Worth ISD’s board of managers, asked a question to the audience gathered Tuesday inside the District Service Center. Is reading a civil right? The belief that it is, Geren said, shaped the district’s nearly $1.1 billion budget for 2026-27. The
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by Fort Worth Report and curated for The Fort Worth readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jacob Sanchez at Fort Worth Report. To learn more about how The Fort Worth selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Fort Worth, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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