District of Innovation

House Bill 1842 was passed in the 84th Legislative Session which gives traditional school districts most of the flexibilities available to the state's open enrollment charter schools. Any district with performance ratings of at least Acceptable in both Academic and Financial Ratings is eligible to become a District of Innovation.

Potential Benefits of Becoming a District of Innovation

• Local control: Districts decide which flexibilities best suit their local needs.
• Customization: Districts can create an innovation plan for a level of school (e.g., only high schools), grade level, or a single campus.
• Autonomy: Districts must submit a district of innovation plan to the commissioner of education, but approval is not required.
• Flexibility: Districts will have the flexibility to implement practices similar to charter schools.  A District may pursue specific innovations in:
  • Curriculum
  • Instruction
  • Governance
  • Parent/Community Involvement
  • School Calendar
  • Budgeting