Karen Molinar named interim superintendent for Fort Worth ISD — for the second time

An interim superintendent has been chosen to oversee the Fort Worth Independent School District — and it’s not her first time to do the job.

Karen Molinar, the school district’s deputy superintendent, will take charge of the district as it searches for a permanent leader, according to a unanimous vote at Tuesday night’s meeting.

“Her journey through our district is a testament to her deep commitment to student success and community engagement,” school board president Roxanne Martinez said.

Molinar’s appointment comes two weeks after the previous superintendent, Angélica Ramsey, resigned from the post over concerns about the district’s academic performance.

Now, Fort Worth ISD will begin its search for a new leader.

Molinar has been here once before: She served as the interim during the search that brought Ramsey to the district.

In an email shortly after the meeting, Molinar laid out the basics of a five-point plan she will recommend to the board at the next regular meeting on Oct. 22.

“I am pleased and humbled to accept the position of Interim Superintendent for the Fort Worth ISD as we embark on a necessary but meaningful transformation to address the critical shortcomings within the District,” Molinar said.

Highlights of the plan include a commitment to improving student achievement and closing performance gaps, a renewed focus on business and community partnerships, budget changes to support student needs, organizational changes aimed at increasing efficiency, and an evaluation of how to consolidate facilities “based on enrollment and academic impact,” Molinar wrote.

“Every student in Fort Worth deserves a path to success,” Molinar said. “We are committed to closing achievement gaps and ensuring that every child has the tools and support they need to thrive academically.”

The district has not yet detailed the plans for its search process, but Molinar said she plans to apply for the permanent position.