William R. Fort was born on February 6, 1942 in Mexia, Texas. Bill’s early education began in Wortham, Texas where he attended school until his high school graduation in 1960. Bill attended college at East Texas Stat University on scholarship and worked as an athletic trainer, but left ETSU a semester early before earning his degree. Bill married Deniese in 1965 and landed a high school math teaching position at Central Heights ISD on emergency certification. He returned to college at Stephen F. Austin State University part-time where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Ed with a minor in Physics in 1967. In the fall of 1967, Mr. Fort got serious about a career in education. He was an elementary teacher for three years before being named principal at Orangefield ISD. During his tenure at Orangefield, Mr. Fort continued his education and earned a Masters of Education Administration in 1970 and completed post-graduate work to earn his Administrator Certificate in 1975. In 1976 he became Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for Sonora ISD and quickly advanced to a superintendent position at Moody ISD, where he served 2 ½ years before accepting a position at the Region XII ESC. In June of 1982, Mr. Fort was named Superintendent of Royse City ISD, a position he would hold for the next 21 years.

When Mr. Fort arrived to Royse City the district was in disarray, especially financially. Fort spent the early years building a strong financial base, and then focused on improving curriculum and facilities. He supervised the construction of two elementary schools and a high school, and the remodel and additions at Browning Primary. Mr. Fort had a genuine concern for the well being of our students and staff, handled the district funds with fiscal responsibility and had an uncanny ability to foresee and plan for the future. The result was a district that was “Recognized” for its student learning, knowledgeable and caring teachers, and first class facilities. In May of 2003, Bill Fort tendered his resignation as Superintendent of Schools, yet continues his service to the district as the construction consultant for Fort Elementary.

Mr. Fort, Royse City ISD salutes you, for your years of honorable, dedicated service to our school district and to our children.