Fort Worth ISD is considering significant budget cuts, including the potential closure of a specialized academy and widespread staff reductions, following a recent state takeover and overhaul.
What happened
Fort Worth ISD is proposing the closure of the International Newcomer Academy, a campus dedicated to immigrant and refugee students in grades six through nine who are learning English. District leadership has suggested shuttering the academy by June as part of an updated facility master plan. In parallel, the district faces widespread personnel reductions, with a separate agenda item detailing substantial staffing cuts within emergent bilingual programs, specifically targeting district-level leadership and coordinators. Staff at the academy were reportedly notified of the potential closure late last Friday.
How many employees affected
While the district is considering widespread personnel reductions and substantial staffing cuts, specific numbers of employees affected by these proposed changes have not been publicly disclosed in the available information.
Why layoffs happened
These proposed measures are being considered as part of significant budget cuts that the district is weighing, following a recent state takeover and comprehensive overhaul of its operations.
Company background
Fort Worth ISD is a public school district serving the city of Fort Worth, Texas. It provides educational services to a diverse student population, including specialized programs for immigrant and refugee students.
Industry impact
The potential closure of the International Newcomer Academy and the proposed cuts to emergent bilingual programs have raised concerns regarding the future management and provision of essential services for newcomer students and those requiring support in learning English within the district. This could impact the district's capacity to serve these vulnerable student populations effectively.
What's next
The Fort Worth ISD board is scheduled to decide on the proposed school closures and staff layoffs. In response to the proposals, the district has invited families to a meeting to discuss the plans with officials.