Ft Worth Times

Lawrence Thompson is a dedicated professional who has made a significant impact in the fields of education and community relations. Since 2021, he has been serving as the education strategy manager for the City of Fort Worth. With a focus on enhancing educational opportunities, Thompson’s goal is to form strategic partnerships with the 15 school districts located within the city’s borders to create a brighter future for Fort Worth residents.

Why it matters: Formerly focused on the Summer Learning Reading Program, the education strategy Manager position has transformed. Thompson's main focus is on building strategic partnerships with independent school districts, community organizations and the business community. This collaborative approach not only improves access to quality education but also empowers residents with the skills needed to succeed in a changing job market. Throughout his career, Thompson has gained a reputation for his outstanding work in the nonprofit sector, skillfully establishing successful community relations across the country. His ability to forge strong connections and collaborations has earned him recognition at the local, state and national levels for his contributions, making him instrumental in driving positive change in various communities.

As an advocate for education, Thompson serves as a liaison between the City’s departments and ISDs, aligning resources to strengthen public education and promote equity. His expertise and leadership are vital in creating economic opportunities and removing barriers for all Fort Worth residents. He believes that “education improves the possibilities of upward mobility for families, and every element in our community has an important role to play in achieving economic prosperity for all.” With an undergraduate degree from the University of the Cumberlands and further education at Harvard Business School, he has honed his understanding of community needs and acquired the necessary expertise to address complex challenges in education and community development.

The education strategy manager plays a vital role in monitoring the performance of educational programs, ensuring they comply with federal, state and local regulations.

• Through collaboration with businesses, government bodies, nonprofit organizations, foundations, and ISD leadership, Thompson develops innovative strategies and initiatives to promote continuous education for Fort Worth’s youth.
• Additionally, he works closely with the leadership in each of the ISDs to identify and bridge employment gaps in local industries, creating new career pathways.

Fort Worth's education strategy highlights the importance of collaboration between the City and school districts. This partnership has immense potential to unlock numerous benefits and drive the city toward greater success. By pooling resources and aligning goals, Fort Worth can foster a well-educated and highly skilled workforce, attracting businesses and boosting economic growth. Collaboration between the City and school districts also cultivates unity, community pride and civic engagement. Jointly organizing events, initiatives and activities strengthens bonds among residents, creating a sense of belonging and promoting inclusivity. Furthermore, this collaborative effort allows Fort Worth to address pressing social issues such as poverty and inequality, ensuring a better quality of life for all residents.

Thompson's leadership as education strategy manager will enhance Fort Worth’s reputation as an education hub and attract talented individuals and families to the city. By prioritizing education, Fort Worth sends a strong message about its commitment to nurturing young minds and creating opportunities for success.

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