Fort Worth ISD approves teacher raises, settlement for former superintendent

The state-appointed Fort Worth ISD board of managers has approved a budget for the upcoming school year that includes a 5% pay increase for classroom teachers. The budget aims to improve recruitment and retention at high-need schools, reduce central office spending, and eliminate vacant positions to redirect more resources directly to classrooms and campuses. Additionally, the plan seeks to address teacher shortages by reducing the reliance on substitutes and providing principals with more time to support educators.

In a separate decision, the board approved a contract settlement for former Superintendent Karen Molinar, granting her one year of pay and additional benefits. Molinar had been appointed by the previous board before the state took over the district. The board also granted Superintendent Dr. Peter B. Licata the authority to make purchases exceeding $250,000 without prior board approval to facilitate preparations for the new school year.

Superintendent Licata, appointed by Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath in March, emphasized that the budget is centered on student achievement and addressing inherited challenges such as declining enrollment and structural deficits. Students are scheduled to return to classes on August 11.

(Source：Nbc 5 Dallas)