In response to ongoing academic challenges, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has appointed Christopher Ruszkowski, a former New Mexico state education secretary, as the conservator for Fort Worth Independent School District (ISD). The appointment follows the state’s takeover of the district, which has struggled with several schools deemed “academically unacceptable” for multiple years.
What Happened
Fort Worth ISD, facing significant academic challenges, is undergoing a state-ordered overhaul, and as part of that effort, Christopher Ruszkowski has been named conservator to oversee the district’s operations. Ruszkowski, who has extensive experience in education leadership, will manage the district’s board, superintendent, and administrators while ensuring that Fort Worth ISD’s turnaround plans are properly implemented.
Ruszkowski’s appointment follows the TEA’s decision to intervene in the district’s leadership after multiple schools failed to meet academic standards for several consecutive years. The district’s performance had been a key factor in the decision for the state takeover, which aims to improve educational outcomes for students.
What They’re Saying
Christopher Ruszkowski expressed his commitment to the role, drawing on his three decades of experience in education. “Throughout my three decades in education, I’ve been honored to take on unique roles during critical inflection points for schools, states, and organizations,” Ruszkowski said. “This conservator appointment is another opportunity to engage in public service of the highest calling. I look forward to working with district leadership in service of the students, teachers, and community of Fort Worth.”
TEA to Appoint Board of Managers and New Superintendent
As part of the state takeover, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath also announced the start of the application process to select members for a new board of managers. This appointed board will replace the district’s current elected board of trustees and work alongside the conservator and the new superintendent to improve the district’s performance.
Morath explained that the board of managers’ appointment is not permanent and will be subject to a statutory timeline. “My hope is that members of the board of trustees will engage with members of the board of managers in an advisory capacity during the term of the board of managers appointment so that when the time comes for the elected officials to return, the transition will be seamless,” Morath wrote in a letter to the district.
Additionally, the TEA will be appointing a new superintendent for Fort Worth ISD, further solidifying the state’s involvement in the district’s restructuring.
Who is Christopher Ruszkowski?
Christopher Ruszkowski brings a wealth of experience to his new role as conservator. He previously served as the Secretary of Education in New Mexico under Governor Susana Martinez, and as Assistant Secretary of Education in Delaware under Governor Jack Markell. Ruszkowski also currently serves as the conservator for IDEA Public Schools, a statewide charter school network, following a state investigation into misconduct.
His broad background in education reform and management of state-level education agencies positions him well to help guide Fort Worth ISD through this challenging period.
Closing line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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