“The reality is times have changed, and a high school diploma is no longer enough. But the great thing about Fort Worth is we’re meeting students where they are and equipping them with opportunities that will set them on a trajectory far into the future. By doing so, we’re also setting up our own city for success.” – Mayor Mattie Parker
Mayor Mattie Parker convened the Mayor’s Council on Education & Workforce in 2022 to influence and enhance educational programs and career pathways in Fort Worth public schools to help prepare students for their future careers, including careers that help meet the current and future needs of business and industry in Fort Worth and North Texas.
Where Achievement Begins
Each spring, Mayor Parker and the Council host "Where Achievement Begins: Mayor’s Celebration for Workforce-Ready Graduates,” honoring a selection of graduating seniors with the Mayor’s Achievement Award in recognition of their work to achieve workforce readiness skills, professional certificates, and internship experience in addition to high school diplomas. Since 2022, the Council has recognized nearly 1,300 students from all 12 school districts at this event.