By André Averion, Communications Chair

Published March 8, 2025.

In a series of rapid developments, Keller Independent School District (Keller ISD) in North Texas is navigating significant upheaval, marked by a proposed district split, legal challenges, and administrative resignations.

Facing a $15 million budget deficit, Keller ISD's Board of Trustees is considering dividing the district into two separate entities: an eastern district retaining the Keller ISD name and a yet-to-be-named western district. This proposal aims to address financial challenges exacerbated by a stagnant state funding allotment, which has remained unchanged since 2019. From 2021 to 2023, the district's general fund balance dwindled from $82 million to $47 million. Board members suggest that creating two districts could provide more localized governance and financial management. However, this plan has ignited controversy among parents and community members, with nearly 3,000 individuals signing an online petition demanding a community vote on the proposed split.

Amid discussions of the district's division, legal challenges have emerged. On Feb. 14, 2025, a federal lawsuit was filed against Keller ISD, alleging that its at-large electoral system violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The lawsuit contends that the current system dilutes Hispanic voters' representation, preventing them from electing candidates of their choice. Attorney William A. Brewer III, representing the plaintiff, stated, "The at-large election system used by Keller ISD dilutes the votes of the significant number of Hispanic citizens." This legal action coincides with the district's split proposal, which some argue could further entrench disparities between the more affluent, predominantly white eastern region and the less affluent, more racially diverse western area.

The turmoil within Keller ISD's leadership intensified when Superintendent Tracy Johnson tendered her resignation during a contentious board meeting on Jan. 16, 2025. Johnson, who had been in her position for just one year following the sudden retirement of her predecessor, Rick Westfall, expressed her opposition to the proposed district split, stating it would be detrimental to students. She remarked, "It's been a huge distraction... I don't know that I want to be a part of it, and so I am prepared to offer my letter of resignation." Despite pleas from some board members and parents for her to reconsider, the board officially accepted her resignation on Feb. 20, 2025 while earning a $425K from Keller ISD as a part of a separation agreement. In the interim, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Dr. Cory Wilson, has been appointed as the acting superintendent.

In a related development, the Fort Worth City Council initiated the process to rezone 23 Keller ISD properties within city limits to a uniform "community facility" designation. This move, led by District 4 representative Charlie Lauersdorf, aims to align the properties' zoning with their educational use. The council's approval on Feb. 25, 2025, allows the Fort Worth Zoning Commission to review and potentially implement these changes, ensuring consistency across all district properties.

In response to the proposed district split, the Heritage Home Owners Association in Fort Worth has established a legal fund to challenge the plan. The Heritage Legal Task Force, supported by association members, is advocating for any proposed split to be subjected to a public vote, reflecting growing community resistance to the board's proposal.

The Fort Worth city attorney has sought guidance from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton regarding the legal implications of the proposed district split. This move underscores the complexity and potential statewide significance of the issue, as state authorities may influence the district's future direction.

Student involvement has intensified, with organized walkouts protesting the proposed division. A Fort Worth Report analysis indicates that the split could disproportionately affect students on either side of Denton Highway, raising concerns about equity and representation among the student body.

The proposed Keller ISD split, legal battles, and leadership changes could have significant implications for Filipino business owners and families in the area, particularly in terms of property values, school quality, and community dynamics.

Property Values and Business Impact: Uncertainty in school district boundaries may affect real estate stability. Filipino families who prioritize education when choosing where to live might hesitate to buy homes in Keller if the district split leads to disparities in school funding or quality. For Filipino business owners, shifting demographics and economic conditions resulting from a district split could influence foot traffic and customer base, especially if families opt to move elsewhere in DFW for more stable school options.

School Quality and Educational Access: Many Filipino families place high value on education. If the split results in unequal funding or resource allocation between the proposed east and west districts, students in one area might receive fewer opportunities than those in another. The Voting Rights Act lawsuit also raises concerns about representation. If new district leadership structures don’t reflect the diversity of the community, Filipino families may have less influence over educational decisions that affect their children.

Community and Cultural Engagement: Keller ISD serves a growing Asian American population, including Filipinos. If a split leads to funding cuts for programs like dual-language courses, cultural clubs, or extracurricular activities, Filipino students may lose access to key opportunities for personal and academic growth. A divided district might also mean less community engagement between families in different zones, impacting events like church gatherings and business networking opportunities.

Neighboring districts such as Grapevine-Colleyville ISD and Carroll ISD have also faced challenges in recent years, but none have proposed a district split of this magnitude. Grapevine-Colleyville ISD has managed financial strain through tax ratification elections and budget restructuring rather than restructuring the district itself. Carroll ISD, known for its high-performing schools, has maintained stability despite political debates over curriculum and policy changes. These districts may serve as potential models for Keller ISD stakeholders seeking alternative solutions to financial struggles without resorting to division.

The proposed split has elicited strong reactions from the community. Parents and students have voiced concerns about potential impacts on educational quality, resource allocation, and property values. Some fear that dividing the district could exacerbate existing disparities between the eastern and western regions. The resignation of Superintendent Johnson has further fueled apprehension, with some community members questioning the board's decision-making process and transparency. In response to mounting pressure, the board has yet to provide a definitive timeline or detailed plan for the proposed split, leaving many stakeholders in a state of uncertainty.

As Keller ISD navigates these multifaceted challenges, the outcomes of the proposed district split, the federal lawsuit, and the search for new leadership will significantly shape the district's future. Stakeholders are closely monitoring these developments, advocating for solutions that prioritize educational excellence, equity, and community cohesion.