UPDATE: Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Karen Molinar announced today that she will step down as the district transitions to state control. This decision comes as Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath confirmed the completion of interviews for a new superintendent, marking a significant shift in leadership for the struggling district.
In a letter to staff and families, Molinar revealed that she participated in the interview process but was informed by Morath that she would not continue in her role. “I believe in the transformative work we have done in our short time together as a community to improve the quality of education for our students,” she stated, emphasizing the need to remain focused on student outcomes during this period of change.
The leadership transition follows a state takeover initiated in October 2023, prompted by long-standing low academic performance that resulted in five consecutive failing grades under Texas’ school rating system. Morath stated, “This decision is not a reflection of Dr. Molinar’s leadership but made with consideration for the scope of changes and improvements needed to better serve all students in the district.”
Molinar, who became superintendent in March 2025, will remain in her position until new leadership is appointed. The Texas Education Agency has already designated Christopher Ruszkowski as a conservator to oversee the district’s transition. The commissioner is expected to announce the new board of managers and superintendent in the coming weeks.
As Fort Worth ISD braces for this significant transformation, educators and community leaders have voiced support for keeping Molinar at the helm during the transition. In her letter, she urged staff to prioritize high-quality instruction, stating, “We must continue the daily delivery of high-quality instruction for every student. Our students deserve nothing less.”
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest on the Fort Worth ISD leadership changes and their implications for the community.
