UPDATE: Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Karen Molinar has announced she will step down once Texas completes its search for a new leader, following a state takeover due to persistent academic failures. In a letter sent to staff and families on March 4, 2026, Molinar confirmed she will not continue in her role after Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath concluded the interview process for her successor.
Molinar stated, “Commissioner Morath has provided me notification that the interview process is complete, and I will not be continuing as the superintendent of Fort Worth ISD.” Despite her departure, she will remain in the position temporarily as Morath appoints new leadership to address significant challenges in the district.
The leadership transition comes in the wake of a state intervention ordered in October 2023, following years of low academic performance. Fort Worth ISD has received five consecutive failing grades under Texas’ school rating system, prompting the need for immediate change.
Morath emphasized that the decision to replace Molinar does not reflect her leadership capabilities but rather the extensive changes required to improve educational outcomes for all students. He stated, “This decision is not a reflection of Dr. Molinar’s leadership but made with consideration for the scope of changes and improvements needed.”
Under state law, Morath can appoint a board of managers and a new superintendent to oversee the district’s turnaround. Christopher Ruszkowski has already been designated as conservator to manage Fort Worth ISD during this transition. The commissioner is expected to announce the new board and superintendent in the coming weeks, creating an immediate sense of urgency for the district.
Molinar, who took on the superintendent role in March 2025 after serving as interim leader, had received support from some educators and local leaders to remain during the takeover. In her letter, she highlighted the initiatives launched during her tenure, including a strategic plan aimed at enhancing literacy and instructional frameworks.
“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,” Molinar expressed. She urged all staff to maintain focus on student learning, stating, “We must continue the daily delivery of high-quality instruction for every student.”
As Molinar prepares to depart, the Fort Worth community is left to grapple with the implications of this leadership shift. The urgency for educational reform has never been clearer, and stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as new leadership is poised to take the reins.
This is a developing story, and updates will continue to follow as more details emerge about the leadership transition at Fort Worth ISD.
