The challenge was active between June 1 and Aug. 9 this year. The final tally shows that 8,384 registered participants logged 4,632,415 minutes of reading. There were 2,380 participants who completed the challenge – 1,000 minutes read for adults and 500 minutes for children.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

“I’m thrilled that the Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge inspired Fort Worth residents to read more than 4.6 million minutes this summer,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “Reading strengthens minds, sparks imagination, and opens doors to opportunity, and I’m proud of the dedication shown by our kids and readers of all ages in reaching this milestone.

Whether you’re reading for entertainment, discovery, or simply the love of learning, let’s continue this momentum all year long.”

The challenge might be over, but Fort Worth readers can continue to track their reading in Beanstack, find reading suggestions, explore fun activities and use a variety of resources available inside libraries and to check out and take home.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

Don’t stop now!

Families with young children are invited to weekly story times and participate in 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, designed to help little learners gain literacy skills before starting school. The Kinder Prep program offers weekly lessons that simulate what children will experience in the classroom in a fun, supportive setting.

Adults are encouraged to explore a variety of Fort Worth Public Library book clubs across the city, some focusing on specific genres. What Fort Worth Reads is a weekly Instagram livestream that highlights adult reading recommendations.

The post Fort Worthians Break Record This Summer first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The FWISD council submitted an impressive portfolio for its efforts in increasing inclusion in PTAs across the district. The statewide recognition rewards councils that foster meaningful connections, remove barriers to participation, and prioritize mission-driven work.

“The Fort Worth ISD Council focused on increasing access to leadership development, particularly in communities less likely to have active or sustained PTA presence,” the Texas PTA said in the recognition. “They offered monthly coffee chats and virtual workshops that brought leaders together across the district.”

“One statement that stood out in their application read, ‘Starting new PTAs isn’t enough — we believe it’s just as important to continue supporting and nurturing parent leaders in these communities so they can thrive,’” Texas PTA went on to say about FWISD. “Their efforts led to stronger connections, greater attendance, and a noticeable rise in PTA involvement and membership.”

PTAs can only win each impact award from Texas PTA once, now FWISD has both. FWISD won the other, the Texas PTA Advocacy Impact Award, last summer. This year, the council also won the Outstanding Council Platform Award, which recognizes overall excellence in advancing and supporting local PTA chapters. Winning both impact awards was a major goal for President Marisol Herrera.

“I worked diligently to achieve these goals, and feel incredibly proud of what we achieved,” Herrera said. “I am grateful and humbled by the work of the Council executive board and all the local PTA units that made it possible. There are wonderful things happening in our district, and we are excited to bring awareness and recognition to our district and our community.”

In recent years, the FWISD Council of PTAs expanded representation across all areas of the district, and Herrera said chapters continue to strive to amplify the voices of historically underrepresented communities.

“I am thankful for all the support the FWISD has extended to our organization, and encourage everyone to continue to get involved and spread the word about the important work we do, ” Herrera said. “It’s not just parents and teachers, all community members play an important role in advancing our mission to make every child’s potential a reality.”

The post FWISD Council of PTAs Earn Prestigious Statewide Honor first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Abbott, a seasoned educator with 19 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership skills, and a deep passion for the 3A’s—academics, arts and athletics—that are central to FWCD’s mission. Her appointment follows a rigorous national search that included input from FWCD’s Upper School faculty, academic department chairs, parents on the Board of Trustees, and members of the school’s senior leadership team.

Born and raised in a small town on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Abbott earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in International Diplomacy with a focus on Terrorism and Counterterrorism from Norwich University in Vermont. Her career spans teaching engagements in the United States and abroad, including roles in North Carolina, Italy and Connecticut.

Abbott’s leadership experience includes her time at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, Connecticut, where she served as assistant division head. There, she spearheaded initiatives to support ninth graders, revamped orientation programs, and created systems to track and enhance students’ academic and social well-being. She also helmed student life programs, including expanding a Model United Nations organization to include over 100 students, launching a competitive Mock Trial Team, and founding the Women in Humanities Club.

“Abby stood out for her innovative approach to education and her demonstrated ability to balance tradition with forward-thinking strategies,” said Eric Lombardi, FWCD’s head of school. “Her passion for learning, her deep respect for faculty and student engagement, and her connections to the arts and athletics make her an exceptional fit for our community. We are thrilled to welcome her as our new head of Upper School and look forward to seeing her lead with vision and excellence.”

At FWCD, Abbott will lead the Upper School’s programs, faculty and initiatives, working closely with students, parents and teachers to foster a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. Committed to faculty development, she plans to further FWCD’s mission by celebrating and nourishing faculty talent, while also inspiring students to reach their full potential. Her leadership style emphasizes curiosity, joy and collaboration.

“I am honored to join the FWCD community and excited to be part of such a dynamic and special school,” said Abbott. “I am inspired by the curiosity and energy of the students, the dedication and talent of the faculty, and the deep commitment of parents to the school’s mission. Together, we will continue to build on FWCD’s strong traditions while exploring opportunities for innovation and growth.”

The post Abby Abbott New FWCD Upper School Head first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

June in Fort Worth is glorious. The sun shines (but we’re not spontaneously combusting yet), the birds sing, and there’s so much fun to be had! As we are wont to do, we’ve collected the best things to do with your family and friends here, so be sure to bookmark this page to refer to all month long.

Summer Zoo Camp
June 2 to August 8
Fort Worth Zoo

Generations of Fort Worth kids have grown up spending their summers at Zoo Camp! Each one week session offers opportunities to meet animals, learn (but don’t tell them they’re learning!), and have a great camp experience with crafts, games and fun.

2025 Cliburn Competition: The Finals
June 3-7
Bass Performance Hall

Enjoy the best of the best. The top pianists in the world will each perform two concertos – one free choice and one chosen from the final round list – accompanied by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. The award ceremony will be at 7 pm on Saturday, June 7.

Art Tales
Every Wednesday in June and July
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Bring your family to the Carter every Wednesday in June and July for super story time fun. Enjoy stories, play games, create your own art, and enjoy performances inspired by the Carter collection.

The Fall of Heaven
June 6-13
Jubilee Theatre

When Tempest Landry finds himself at the Pearly Gates, he’s not best pleased. His quick thinking exploits a loophole, so St. Peter is forced to send Tempest back to Earth with an angel in tow to keep him out of trouble. This play, by Walter Mosely of Easy Rawlins fame, explores humanity, good, evil, and love.

The Fundamentals of Baking for Teens (13 to 17)
June 7
Central Market Cooking School

With just a few simple ingredients – flour, water, salt, fat, and leavening agents), your teen will learn how to make delicious biscuits, scones, muffins and tea bread. Seriously, sign your teen up and then let them bake for you. You won’t be disappointed!

Movies in the Park: Dog Man
June 7
Trinity Park Playground

Load up with the car with blankets, chairs, snack, dogs, and don’t forget the kids! Enjoy a night under the stars with everyone’s favorite half canine crime fighter! And if you don’t have a dog, don’t worry. Fort Worth Animal Control will be there with some adorable pups up for adoption!

Almost 5 Art Camp
June 9-13
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Your little artists will get to explore the Modern each day before working with area artists to learn and create. The last day will feature an exhibition of the campers’ works and a reception.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical
June 10-15
Bass Performance Hall

Truth. Beauty. Freedom. Love. Based on Baz Luhrman’s beloved film, Moulin Rouge! The Musical escorts you into a grandiose world where bohemians and aristocrats come together to play. Warning: This contains mature themes, revealing costumes, and adult language.

Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Fallen Souffle
June 12-29
Stage West

On the eve of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, the playboy Prince of Wales and the famed French chef Auguste Escoffier arrive at 221B Baker Street in need of Sherlock Holmes’ help. Join Holmes, Dr. Watson, and Irene Adler as they try to solve their most bizarre case yet.

SparkFest 2025
June 13-22
Amphibian Stage

Each summer, Amphibian Stage SparkFest, an arts festival that focuses on uplifting underrepresented communities. This summer, SparkFest celebrates Native American and indigenous peoples of Turtle Island and Hawai’i. From new plays to new actors, storytelling and slam poetry, SparkFest seeks to inspire creativity and honor discounted voices.

Wandering Roots Bark and Browse PopUp
June 14
Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Featuring over 30 local artisans, the Bark and Browse PopUp is the best pet-friendly market in town! Enjoy two full days of the best artisans, food and beverage vendors, face painters, and more, and they’re all pet lovers!

Second Saturday: Movement Imprints with Contemporary Dance/Fort Worth
June 14
Kimbell Art Museum

Explore diverse forms of creative expression inspired by and presented in conjunction with the Kimbell’s special exhibition, Modern Art and Politics in Germany 1910–1945: Masterworks from the Neue Nationalgalerie, Berlin.

Father’s Day Cookout
June 14
Fort Worth Zoo

Celebrate Dad at the Zoo! Enjoy an evening cookout with your little animals while celebrating Dad.

Father’s Day Boozy Brunch Market
June 15
Martin House Brewing Company

Enjoy live music, fun food trucks, and great beer while you sip and shop from local vendors. Bring the family and the dog!

Opal’s Walk for Freedom
June 19
Farrington Field

Join Dr. Opal Lee on her annual two-and-a-half mile walk to commemorate the two-and-a-half years it took for enslaved people in Texas to learn that they were free. Opal Lee is known throughout the US as the Grandmother of Juneteenth, and we are honored to say she’s a Fort Worthian!

A Juneteenth Comedy Celebration
June 19
Dickies Arena

It’s not just a comedy show (although it’s certainly that). It’s a cultural event. It’s a movement. It’s a celebration of freedom, unity, and Black excellence. Dress to impress and leave the kids at home while you celebrate Juneteenth in style!

Your Voice Unleashed: Not a Black Thing, Not a White Thing, It’s the Right Thing
June 21-26
O.D. Wyatt High School

Your Voice Unleashed brings together teens of all races and backgrounds to learn about cultural differences and work toward a better future of unity.

A Strange Loop
June 19 – July 12
Circle Theatre

Circle Theatre is proud to present the regional premiere of the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical. A Strange Loop explores identity and creativity through song and storytelling. Warning: This show contains adult language and situations.

Art Camp Ages 5 through 7
June 23-27
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Your elementary artists will get to explore the Modern each day before working with area artists to learn and create. The last day will feature an exhibition of the campers’ works and a reception.

American Classics for Teens (13-17)
June 24
Central Market Cooking School

One thing that everyone should know is how to make a meal from start to finish. Your teen will learn how to make crispy fried chicken, perfect mashed potatoes, a green side enhanced with compound butter, and the ultimate classic dessert: Texas sheet cake with vanilla ice cream!

Midsummer Mingle
June 26
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Celebrate the solstice at the Carter! Enjoy signature cocktails, tasty bites, music, and the Amon Carter’s collections with the Carter Society. This year’s Mingle is inspired by the Carter’s priceless photography collection, so don’t miss your shot at this celebration of summer!

Kimbell Casual Friday: Curtain Call
June 27
Kimbell Art Museum

Enjoy an interactive evening at the Kimbell. Bring your friends for art, conversation, and the occasional friendly competition!

Trinity Pride Fest ‘25
June 28
South Main Village

Trinity Pride Fest returns with a reimagined look but the same heart and soul. Enjoy Fort Worth’s most vibrant celebration of authenticity, where wisdom meets whimsy and purpose meets party. There’s something magical for everyone, and love will always win!

The post Flame-Flowered, Yellow-Petaled June: Fun in the Fort first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“Summertime in our public libraries is about exploration and reading for fun,” said Library Director Midori Clark.

To encourage more reading for everyone and combat the summer slide in young readers, the Fort Worth Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge is back after a record-setting 2024, with participants reading more than 4.5 million minutes. In partnership with the Fort Worth Mayor’s Office, this program encourages residents and families to spend more time reading this summer.

Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Public Library

“We know that students lose on average about 20% of their school-year gains in reading during the summer break,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “The Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge encourages our kids to spend more time reading this summer vacation to prevent that backslide.”

Within the challenge, reading minute milestones are tracked easily in the Beanstack app or website, and prizes are awarded at local library locations when participants complete the challenge. Residents can sign up 24/7 in the Beanstack app (iOS and Android) and anyone who needs help can ask the Library’s staff on their next visit.

When participants sign up for the challenge, they can earn a free short stack from IHOP. There are prizes along the way like free books, tote bags and more. The real prize might be in finding a new favorite author, story, or library experience – like story times with free admission to the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, the first Monday of each month, all summer long.

“Reading and literacy is foundational in a thriving community,” said Parker, “And our wonderful libraries make it so much fun for Fort Worth families through this initiative.”

The post Having Fun While Fighting the Summer Slide first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Every Wednesday in June and July, you and your kiddos can enjoy family summer fun inspired by the Carter’s collection. Hear stories, play gallery games, create artworks, enjoy special guest performances, and more! All ages are welcome but parents MUST be accompanied by a child.

Each week of Art Tales offers something new, so mark your calendars for Art Tales at the Carter!

Wednesday, June 4
IT’S LEGENDARY

From tall tales to local lore, dive into storytelling through books, gallery games, art making, and a performance by Georgia Frawley and the KGCO Radio Music Show.

Wednesday, June 11
CLOSE TO HOME

Celebrate connection and community! Meet local author Ann Katagiri, enjoy a performance by Narwhals and Waterfalls, and explore shared histories in East of the Pacific: Making Histories of Asian American Art.

Wednesday, June 18
JAM SESSION

It’s music to our ears! Explore musical themes in Classically Trained: The Gentlings and Music with percussionist Mark Shelton, plus stories, games, and hands-on art activities.

Wednesday, June 25
WORKING TOGETHER

Team up for a collaborative morning inspired by Jean Shin: The Museum Body. Join us for group storytelling, creative play, and a musical performance by David Chicken.

Wednesday, July 9
SNACK ATTACK

Satisfy your artistic sweet tooth! Inspired by food-themed artworks, this day features tasty tales, imaginative art making, and a lively performance by Brown Girls Do Ballet.

Wednesday, July 16
POWERFUL PATTERNS

Spot polka dots, stripes, and zigzags across the Carter! Enjoy a pattern-filled morning of stories, hands-on fun, and a performance by A Real Mad Hatter.

Wednesday, July 23
FUR, FEATHERS, AND SCALES

From sea creatures to prairie dwellers, animals take center stage! Explore wild artworks with The Creature Teacher, plus themed stories, games, and art making.

Wednesday, July 30
MATERIAL MIXUP

Wrap up the summer with a creative celebration! Repurpose materials into imaginative art and enjoy music from Brandi Waller Pace, alongside favorite activities from the season.

Registration opens on May 1. For more information, click here.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be provided for Auditorium performances for each week of Art Tales. For more information or to request additional ASL interpretation for activity stations, please email us.

The post Art Tales Returns to the Carter This Summer first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Produced in partnership with the National Geographic Society and the Jane Goodall Institute, the exhibition explores Dr. Goodall’s life from her early years as an intrepid young woman with a dream to learn about animals in Africa, to her years establishing herself as a renowned scientist in Gombe, Tanzania to her present role as an activist, mentor and advocate for creating a better world for all life on Earth. “Becoming Jane” will remain open at FWMSH until September 1, 2025.

Widely known for her innovative approach to animal behavior research, Dr. Goodall traveled to what is now Tanzania’s Gombe National Park and immersed herself in observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Her work studying the lives of chimpanzees in the wild captured the imagination of the world. Rather than seeing the animals as subjects, she came to know them as individuals with personalities and emotions—a notion once rejected by the scientific world, yet now considered revolutionary. Her story—one of fearless determination, curiosity, the pursuit of knowledge and a passionate love of the natural world—has resonated with generations of people around the globe.

Erik (HASH) Hersman from Orlando, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“Dr. Goodall has made tremendous strides in understanding wildlife in Africa and this exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to learn about her innovative research techniques and passion for nature,” said Emily Dunham, chief campus and experiences officer at the National Geographic Society. “From reading her hand-written notes to exploring memories from her childhood to a life-sized hologram of Dr. Goodall, visitors young and old will experience her legacy and powerful message of hope firsthand.” Highlights from the exhibition include:

• A multiscreen experience where visitors are introduced to Dr. Goodall’s extraordinary work, alongside surprising encounters with virtually rendered chimpanzees.
• A replica of Dr. Goodall’s research tent where, in a hands-on experience, visitors can envision themselves as scientists jotting down observations in their field journal.
• A hologram-like projection of Dr. Goodall who shares her memories in Gombe and recalls her thoughts, feelings, impressions and lessons learned while living among chimpanzees.
• An immersive projection of Tanzania’s Gombe National Park
• Interactive augmented reality (AR) activities, including one in which visitors can test their skills at matching the pant-hoot vocalization of a chimpanzee.
• Updates on the current state of Gombe National Park and the chimpanzee range in Africa, along with the work of the innovative scientists and conservationists who are following in Dr. Goodall’s footsteps.
• A call to action to visitors from Dr. Goodall to join her, the Jane Goodall Institute and National Geographic in an effort to ensure a more sustainable future for us all.
• A pledge station where visitors can share what actions they will take to help Dr. Goodall in her mission.

“We are honored to bring “Becoming Jane” to Fort Worth,” said Museum President, Regina Faden, Ph.D. “Jane Goodall’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and compassion, and it resonates with people of all ages. This exhibit brings her journey to life in a way that’s inspiring, hands-on, and communicates a call to action for future generations.”

On May 23, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History will be hosting an exclusive morning preview for VIP supporters and select media. That same day, Museum Members will receive an entire day of early access to the exhibit from 10 AM-5 PM. “Becoming Jane” will open to the public on Saturday, May 24 at 10 AM.

“I hope that those who visit the Becoming Jane exhibit will realize we’re part of the natural world and we depend on it for air, water, everything,” said Dr. Goodall. “It is so important to remember that each one of us has a role to play in helping to heal the harm that we have inflicted on Mother Earth. That we each make an impact every day, and we have a choice as to what sort of impact we make.”

For a deeper dive into Jane Goodall’s legacy, Museum guests can watch the award-winning documentary “Jane Goodall: Reasons for Hope”, which is now playing in the Museum’s Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater.

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM, and Sunday, Noon – 5 PM. Special hours may apply. The exhibit is included with Museum admission or membership. Admission is $14 for seniors, $16 for adults, $12 for juniors, and free for children under two years old. Tickets can be reserved online at www.fwmuseum.org.

The post “Becoming Jane” Opening at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

As exciting as that is, it’s also a reminder that the “summer slide” is very real. And with literacy levels under scrutiny in Fort Worth, summer educational programs are important to keep your kiddos up to grade level.

Go Beyond Grades Tarrant County has gathered numerous summer programs that will help keep your child on track over the summer into this one handy guide. There are programs for every age, every level, and every neighborhood in Tarrant County.

So click the link below to give your children a head start for the school year and for life!

GBG Summer Opportunities 2025

The post Summer Opportunities for Go Beyond Grades first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The initiative is led by a partnership between the Fort Worth Sports Commission, the NCAA and the Fort Worth ISD around the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships. The ten-week reading competition featured 75 elementary schools representing 31,513 students. More than 10,000 new books were distributed to FWISD schools and students as part of the program.

S.S. Dillow elementary school was the ultimate winner of the competition. They received their trophy at the Award Ceremony at Dickies Arena where the top eight schools were in attendance (more than 3,500 students) to celebrate all the students for their significant achievement.

“We are grateful for our partnership with the NCAA and Fort Worth ISD in implementing this impactful program for local elementary students,” said Jason Sands, executive director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission. “This is a shining example of how our championship events leave a lasting legacy in our community.”

The NCAA® National Woman’s Collegiate Gymnastics Championship will be hosted in Fort Worth through 2027 thanks to combined efforts of the Fort Worth Sports Commission, Texas Women’s University and Knight Eady. For more information about the championships visit www.fortworth.com/ncaa.

The post NCAA Readers Become Leaders Winner Announced first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Cruz’s application, which highlighted her dedication to STEM and leadership roles in her school such as Green Club President and Student Council Treasurer, was selected among participants across the U.S. and Canada. Her application was completed with the support of a GITC writing mentor, who assisted her with crafting her personal essay. She was surprised with the news in a celebration at her school, in which teachers, GITC staff and her family attended.

“This national award underscores the effectiveness of our STEM-focused programs and college readiness workshops, which empower girls like Emmily to achieve their dreams,” said Jennifer Limas, CEO of Girls Inc. of Tarrant County. “To have a girl from Tarrant County recognized on a national stage is a huge honor, and a testament to the talent and potential we see in our girls every day.”

Cruz has participated in GITC since 2023. She plans to attend Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas in the fall.

The post Marine Creek Student Wins National Scholarship first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.