District of Innovation
In 2015, the 84th Texas Legislature passed HB 1842, allowing public school districts to become Districts of Innovation (DOI) and gain exemption from certain provisions of the Texas Education Code. Sherman ISD first became a District of Innovation in 2016 to enhance local control and flexibility, allowing the district to implement policies that best fit our community.
Under HB 1842, District of Innovation designations and their associated Local Innovation Plans are valid for five years. SISD renewed its Local Innovation Plan in 2021 and 2026. The updated District of Innovation Renewal Plan was adopted by the Board of Trustees on June 15, 2026 following the required public review period and is effective from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2031.
Teacher Certification
Sherman ISD’s Local Innovation Plan provides an exemption from TEC, §21.003, which requires staff employed in certain positions to hold an appropriate certificate or permit. House Bill 2, passed during the 89th Texas Legislature in 2025, changes requirements for teacher certification. Sherman ISD has outlined a three-year plan for meeting requirements of this new law.