Fort Worth ISD has rejected a new state law allowing districts to establish a prayer period during the school day.
The district joins a growing list of school systems, including Grapevine-Colleyville, that have voted against the proposal. Some North Texas districts, including Keller and Aledo, have approved it.
Senate Bill 11 passed during the last legislative session. It requires Texas school boards to decide whether to create dedicated prayer time during the school day. Districts must vote on the measure by March 1, 2026.
Late Tuesday, the Fort Worth school board voted 7-1 against adopting the policy.
About a dozen people, including religious leaders, spoke during the meeting. Some held signs urging board members to reject the proposal.
District staff recommended voting no, stating Fort Worth ISD already has a policy allowing students to pray and engage in religious expression during the school day and on school property.
Parents who opposed the measure expressed relief after the vote.
“This concept that the government has a place telling us what religion we should be and how to practice, and whether or not we have a right to practice, is terrifying to me,” said Talya Galaganov, a Fort Worth ISD parent.
Also, on Tuesday, parents and community groups called on Fort Worth ISD to take a stronger stance against ICE officers on school campuses.
Parents said recent immigration enforcement actions nationwide have created fear among families. They want the district to adopt clearer policies outlining how staff should respond if federal agents seek access to school property.
That topic was not on the agenda on Tuesday, but advocates said they hope it will be addressed soon.