FORT WORTH — The Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) Board of Trustees has unanimously selected Dr. Karen Molinar as the sole finalist for the position of permanent superintendent, marking a significant step forward for the district, which has faced considerable challenges over the recent years.
The board’s decision came following the resignation of Dr. Angélica Ramsey, who vacated her role last October, sparking concerns about the district’s future. Since then, Molinar has stepped up as interim superintendent, steering the district through turbulent waters. On February 18, the board announced their decision after they reviewed approximately 12 candidates, with Board President Roxanne Martinez stating, "It was clear we had the lone finalist with Dr. Molinar." The district must now follow state law, which requires a 21-day waiting period before finalizing the appointment, with the official confirmation slated for March 11.
Dr. Molinar, who is 50, has been deeply rooted within Fort Worth ISD since joining as a teacher back in 1997. Her tenure has encompassed numerous roles, from principal and classroom teacher to deputy superintendent. This extensive experience within the district has cultivated her reputation as a constant advocate for student success and community collaboration.
Expressing her appreciation for the board’s trust, Molinar stated, "I am honored to be selected as the lone finalist for Fort Worth ISD superintendent. Fort Worth ISD is my home, and I look forward to working alongside our talented educators and staff to ensuring every student receives a high-quality education.”
Molinar's appointment arrives at a time when FWISD is grappling with pressing issues such as declining student enrollment and budget cuts. The district has reported challenges including the possibility of closing more than 20 schools to address its estimated $17 million budget deficit. She has clarified, though, “This is not going to be next year where we're looking at closing 5, 10, 15 schools. It will be a phase-in process,” indicating her commitment to inclusive decision-making.
The literacy crisis within the district has been of major concern, with recent board discussions highlighting the district’s lag behind other large Texas school systems. Molinar is spearheading efforts to boost literacy initiatives, championing the adoption of new strategies aimed at radically improving reading skills across the district. "We've already reallocated resources to work with our students for some intervention time and we've seen some gains," Molinar noted, affirming her determination to address these challenges head-on.
Martinez, the board president, is optimistic about Molinar’s approach, stating, "We believe she will implement impactful changes benefiting our students.” School officials and trustees recognize the necessity of addressing the literacy issues currently threatening the district’s academic performance.
Molinar’s leadership strategy aligns closely with transparency, and community involvement is central to her approach. She has actively encouraged feedback from parents and teachers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and open communication. “I’m happy to have someone who is approachable and actually listens to the community,” remarked Trenace Dorsey-Hollins of Parent Shield, highlighting the trust local organizations have placed in Molinar.
Looking forward, Molinar has outlined the district's strategic plans focused on literacy and community engagement. She remarked on the importance of preparing educators with the right tools, stating, “We need to develop budget priorities, emphasizing literacy programs and ensuring every school has the resources necessary to support student success.”
Importantly, her experience and relationships within the district build confidence among those who have worked with her. Steven Poole, the executive director of United Educators Association, remarked on her historical rapport with teachers, emphasizing how her long-standing presence will facilitate trust and facilitate collaboration as she takes on her new role.
Dr. Molinar will have to hit the ground running as the district's challenges intensify amid economic uncertainties and enrollment fluctuations. Her proactive stance on school closures and educational improvements promises a shift aimed at revitalizing Fort Worth ISD. “The real work goes on now,” Trustee Wallace Bridges noted, echoing the sentiment among many stakeholders invested in the district's future.
With the culmination of nearly thirty years of educational experience, Dr. Molinar is focusing on promoting student success and enhancing educational integrity within this pivotal moment for Fort Worth ISD. The community looks on with anticipation as she prepares to navigate the challenges and opportunities to come, striving to make Fort Worth ISD a beacon of educational excellence.