Fort Worth ISD Rejects State Law on School Prayer
The Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) Board of Trustees voted 7-1 on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, against adopting a policy that would establish a dedicated period for prayer in schools, as authorized by Texas Senate Bill 11 (SB 11). NBC DFW and The Fort Worth Report both reported on the decision.
Background on Senate Bill 11
SB 11, passed by the 89th Texas Legislature in June 2025, requires Texas school boards to vote on whether to designate a time for prayer during the school day. The Fort Worth Report notes that the law does not require establishing a prayer time, but rather compels a vote on the matter.
FWISD’s Rationale for Rejection
District staff recommended against adopting the policy, stating that existing FWISD policy already allows students to pray and engage in religious expression during the school day. NBC DFW reported that the board agreed, finding a formal period unnecessary under current rules.
Community Input
Approximately a dozen individuals, including religious leaders, addressed the board during the meeting, with some urging members to reject the proposal. NBC DFW highlighted that parents also voiced concerns regarding immigration enforcement on campuses, although this issue was not on the agenda for the meeting.
Other North Texas Districts
Fort Worth ISD joins Grapevine-Colleyville ISD in voting against SB 11. Still, other North Texas districts, including Keller and Aledo, have approved the policy. NBC DFW and The Fort Worth Report both provide examples of districts taking differing approaches.
What This Means for Students
The decision by the FWISD board means there will be no additional dedicated block of time for prayer during school hours. However, students retain the right to express their faith individually, as per existing district policies. NBC DFW clarifies this point.
Upcoming Deadlines
All Texas school boards are required to cast a recorded vote on SB 11 by March 1, 2026. Families in other districts are encouraged to check their local school board agendas. The Fort Worth Report emphasizes the importance of this deadline.
Galveston ISD Also Rejects School Prayer Periods
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Galveston ISD became another local school district to reject school prayer periods permitted by the new Texas law. Instagram reported this development.