Hundreds of Fort Worth ISD students came together in late May for a day of fun, marking the end of a successful school year and the beginning of the Leadership Academy Network. A new partnership between TXWES and the District, the Network is designed to build on a highly effective education model and keep four elementary campuses and one middle school on track for continued progress.

Students from Fort Worth ISD Leadership Academies enjoyed games, music and fitness activities to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate the future of their schools. Beginning in fall 2019, a specialized team in the TXWES School of Education will operate and manage the Leadership Academies at Como Elementary, John T. White Elementary, Maude I. Logan Elementary, Mitchell Boulevard Elementary and Forest Oak Middle School.

These once-struggling campuses experienced significant turnarounds when Fort Worth ISD introduced the Leadership Academy model, which centers on strategic and specialized academic support. The approach—including an extended school day with individualized instruction and a concentration of exceptionally qualified educators—is linked to improved outcomes at all participating schools.

TXWES will help Fort Worth ISD build on Leadership Academy achievements and bring the School of Education’s expertise in curriculum, instruction, administration and student development to the campuses. The Network also offers opportunity for future educators, as TXWES student teachers get the opportunity to participate in innovative instructional methods.

The TXWES and Fort Worth ISD boards approved the Leadership Academy Network in early 2019; TXWES recently appointed Priscila Dilley to oversee School of Education efforts. Dilley launched and led the Leadership Academy initiative in her previous role as executive director in Fort Worth ISD’s Office of Innovation and Transformation.

Dilley was among the Leadership Academy Network staff cheering on students at the May event, held at John T. White Elementary.

“For the past two years, we have seen amazing results with our Leadership Academy schools,” said Dilley. “Entering into this partnership means we can continue that success and provide even greater opportunities for these students to succeed.”