> At a Glance
> – Andrew Kim named conservator over Lake Worth ISD
> – Only 22 % of students read or do math on grade level; five of six campuses rated F
> – Kim helped cut $40 million and erase all D/F ratings in El Paso takeover
> – Why it matters: State now controls hiring, spending, and curriculum in your neighborhood schools
The Texas Education Agency has stripped power from Lake Worth ISD leaders and handed the keys to veteran turnaround specialist Andrew Kim, effective immediately.
What a Conservator Can Do
TEA rules give Kim authority to approve-or kill-every major move the district makes.
- Override board votes
- Veto hiring or firing
- Redirect budgets
- Report progress to the state every month
The clock is already ticking: the state wants measurable gains within two school years.
Track Record in El Paso
Michael Hinojosa, Kim’s co-conservator in a recent El Paso-area district, said their team:
- Cut $40 million in overhead
- Eliminated every D and F campus rating
- Finished the job ahead of schedule
Michael Hinojosa praised Kim’s style:
> “He brings a calming influence and some security. At least he’s familiar with Lake Worth-he’s already been working here for months.”
How Lake Worth Stacks Up
| District | % Students On Level | Campuses Graded F |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Worth ISD | 22 % | 5 of 6 |
| Fort Worth ISD | 34 % | Takeover pending |
TEA Commissioner Mike Morath told News Of Fort Worth the numbers show a deeper crisis.
> “Our students in Lake Worth are even further behind than many in Fort Worth. It’s a particularly systematic problem.”
Hinojosa calls the challenge urgent.
> “How will this third grader be prepared for post-secondary success?”
What Families Should Expect Next
Kim’s team will tighten operations fast.
- Stricter spending controls
- Scripted lesson plans
- Frequent classroom monitoring
- Mandatory community meetings
Next meeting: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Lake Worth High School Auditorium, 4210 Boat Club Road.
Key Takeaways
- Andrew Kim now holds final say over all district decisions
- Only 22 % of students perform at grade level; five campuses rated F
- Community meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 14
Expect tighter budgets and stricter academics as the state races to raise scores before the two-year deadline.
