DOI - Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is a District of Innovation?

A. District of Innovation is a concept passed by the 84th Legislative Session in House Bill 1842 giving more local control to school districts. Districts of Innovation may be exempted from a number of state statutes, have greater local control, and increased flexibility and freedom.

 

Q. Why is Brenham ISD interested in becoming a district of innovation?

A. An innovation plan would give Brenham ISD more flexibility and local control over curriculum, instruction, professional development, school calendar, and more. With input from our families and community partners, Brenham ISD could decide how to best meet the needs of our students without being restricted to a one-size-fits-all approach.

 

Q. What are the requirements for becoming a District of Innovation?

A. There are several steps to becoming a District of Innovation:

  1. The Board of Trustees must:

    1. approve a resolution to consider becoming a District of Innovation

    2. hold a public hearing

    3. appoint a committee

  2. The District Educational Improvement Committee must:

    1. hold a public meeting

    2. approve any plan that may be developed by a majority vote

  3. The plan must be posted on the district website for 30 days.

  4. The Texas Education Commissioner must be notified that the Board of Trustees will be considering approval of the District of Innovation Plan.

  5. The Board of Trustees must approve the final plan by a two-thirds majority.

 

Q. How many other schools in Texas have applied to be a District of Innovation?

A. Only 44 of the 1,247 school districts in Texas have notified the TEA that they have adopted a local innovation plan and are designated as an Innovation District.

 

Q. Does this mean we can opt out of taking the STAAR test?

A. No. An innovation plan cannot seek exemption from academic accountability, including student assessments.

 

Q. Will this plan impact the start date for the 2017-2018 school year?

A. The academic calendar for the 2017-2018 school year has not yet been adopted.

 

Q. How can I get answers to my questions about Districts of Innovation?

A. Please visit www.brenhamisd.net for more information or to submit a question or comment.