Media Relations

Requests from the Media

Jessica Becerra

News and Information Manager
817.851-2188

Fort Worth ISD is committed to working cooperatively with the news media. It is the role of the News and Information staff to collaborate with local, state, regional, and national media outlets in sharing meaningful information regarding the district.

We love to spotlight the great teaching and learning happening in our classrooms, and we welcome the press to cover stories about school and district news, events, programs, and activities. We also have lots of story ideas, so feel free to contact us if you need one!

Guidelines & Protocols

General Guidelines

Central point of contact: Direct all media inquiries to the Communications Office at media@fwisd.org or call/text the media cell at 817-851-2188. Do not contact campuses or employees directly to arrange coverage.
- Why: To vet requests, line up viable spokespeople, protect student privacy (FERPA), and ensure efficient, accurate responses.
Advance notice: Email or call before visiting any FWISD location, even for b-roll or a stand-up. 24 hours’ notice is preferred; same-day requests require at least one hour when possible. Media representatives who do not follow this protocol will be asked to leave district property.
Credentials and check-in: Wear a visible outlet credential at all times. Upon arrival, present ID at the front office, sign in, obtain a visitor badge, and wait for a Communications or campus escort.
On-campus access: Filming, photography, and interviews on FWISD property require prior approval from Communications. Principals and employees are not authorized to grant media access independently.
Students and privacy:
- No student interviews or identifiable images without guardian permission coordinated by Communications (exceptions may apply for public events in public spaces; when in doubt, ask).
- Do not capture student records, computer screens, medical information, or other personally identifiable information.
Classrooms: Classroom access is limited and must be scheduled through Communications with principal approval. Instructional time is prioritized; alternative locations may be provided.
B-roll/stand-ups: Permitted from public right-of-way. On property requires approval, check-in, and an escort.
Safety and emergencies: During drills, lockdowns, or active incidents, remain off campus and follow directives from FWISD Communications and law enforcement. Do not take photos or video of tactical activity or restricted areas.
Equipment and conduct: Keep gear clear of doors and walkways; tape down cables; use battery power when possible. No drones may be used without written approval from Communications (FAA rules apply; no flights over people).
After-hours/weekends/holidays: Use the media phone 817-851-2188 for time-sensitive requests. Availability may be limited; we’ll respond as quickly as feasible.
Spokespeople: FWISD will designate appropriate subject-matter experts. Employees may not speak on behalf of the district without authorization.
Violations: Failure to follow these protocols may result in access restrictions, removal from property, and/or future denials of on-site requests.

Board Meetings

Arrival time: Media may not enter the building before 5 p.m. when covering board meetings.
Workspaces: Six workrooms are available by advance reservation through the Communications Office (email media@fwisd.org). Space is confirmed only upon written notice from Communications and available until 9 p.m. Any media representative wishing to stay later than 9 p.m. must move into the board room to reduce interference with custodial work and building security sweeps.
Check-in: All media must check in at the District Service Center main entrance, present a government-issued ID, and wear a visible outlet credential and FWISD visitor badge at all times.
Camera/photography positions: Use the marked media areas only. No tripods or cables in aisles or egress paths. No flash during the meeting. Handheld or quiet-shutter still photography is permitted.
Audio: A press mult box will be available in the media area when feasible. Do not place microphones on the dais.
Movement: No roaming in front of the dais or between trustees during proceedings. Enter/exit the chamber quietly; no live stand-ups, talking on mobile phones, etc. inside the chamber while the board is in session.
Interviews: Interviews with trustees or staff are voluntary and coordinated through Communications. Requests for interviews on a posted agenda item must be requested no later than 4 p.m. on the day of a board meeting.
Livestream/record: FWISD’s official livestream is the primary feed. Outlets may record from the media area consistent with reasonable time, place, and manner rules.
Security: All persons and bags are subject to screening. Follow directions from security and staff. Non-compliance may result in removal.

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