Mike Morath, head of the Texas Education Agency, is expected to tour several Fort Worth ISD campuses this week, including William James Middle School, Clifford Davis Elementary, and Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Middle School. The visit, part of his district-wide tour, comes at a time when FWISD leadership faces sharp criticism over ongoing facility and transportation issues.
According to staff reports, crews have been rushing to prepare William James Middle School for Morath’s arrival, with last-minute painting and repairs happening around the clock. Some employees suggest the flurry of activity highlights a broader frustration: campuses with broken air conditioning, outdated facilities, or long-standing issues often go untouched until a high-profile visit.
Concerns raised by employees and parents include classrooms and portable buildings without functioning air conditioning, fire alarms in poor condition, and lengthy bus rides for special education students—sometimes exceeding three hours. Cafeteria food quality has also been questioned. At Clifford Davis Elementary, tensions appear to be especially high, with staff reportedly warned against speaking out about the conditions.
While district leadership may showcase selected campuses for the commissioner, critics argue that the “Magical Morath Tour” risks painting an incomplete picture. Parents and staff hope Morath will take the opportunity to make unannounced visits to schools facing the greatest challenges, rather than only those that have been polished up for the occasion.
The visit has sparked conversation among teachers, parents, and community advocates who seek long-term solutions, rather than quick fixes, for the district’s ongoing problems.
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