Fort Worth, Texas — In a unanimous decision Tuesday evening, the Fort Worth ISD Board of Trustees officially appointed Dr. Karen Molinar as the district’s new superintendent.
Molinar, a 27-year veteran of the district, had been serving as interim superintendent following the resignation of former superintendent Dr. Angelica Ramsey.
The room erupted in applause as Molinar was named to the position.
“I am truly honored to accept this role because Fort Worth is my home,” Molinar said moments after the board’s vote. “I will strive every day to make you proud and work toward building a better district and city for our students. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but it’s the right work.”
Molinar outlined her commitment to addressing literacy as her top priority until the district closes the student achievement gap.
Board President Roxanne Martinez shared that the board had interviewed 12 candidates before making their final decision. She did not disclose the details of Molinar’s contract or salary on Tuesday, saying that contract specifics would be shared once the paperwork was finalized.
“It’s clear that Dr. Molinar is the right choice to lead us into the next chapter,” Martinez said.
Molinar, who has held various roles in the district from teacher to administrator, now steps into the role of superintendent.
“I will lead with transparency, grace, and integrity,” Molinar pledged during the meeting.
Molinar’s appointment comes at a time when many districts in North Texas are grappling with challenges such as budget shortfalls, declining enrollment, and the potential for school closures.
“Dr. Molinar, your vision for Fort Worth ISD is our vision,” one parent expressed during the special meeting. “I hope you can prevent the closure of our school.”
Steven Poole, president of the United Educators Association, also attended the meeting to congratulate Molinar.
“You made the right choice,” Poole told the board. “I’m hopeful for Fort Worth ISD’s future. Last year, when Mayor Parker came, you all stayed focused and made some very hard decisions. You were unified and stayed on track.”
Many parents also praised the board for selecting an insider, someone who understands the district thoroughly.
Molinar, who has already rolled out a comprehensive strategic plan to improve student achievement, expressed optimism about the district’s future.