In the summer of 2015, the 84th Texas Legislature passed HB 1842, allowing public school districts to become Districts of Innovation (DOI) and to gain exemption from certain provisions of the Texas Education Code. On Monday, March 21, 2016, the Sherman ISD Board of Trustees unanimously passed a resolution to become a Texas District of Innovation. At that time, the main driver for pursuing such a designation was to consider the vision for the future of Sherman ISD and support innovation and initiatives that benefit students, staff, parents, and the broader community – much like our five-year strategic plan.

With the support of the Board and Superintendent, a Site-Based Innovation Team of more than 50 parents, students, teachers, community members and administrators was formed. Once the committee was selected, the district was then charged to design a comprehensive local innovative plan, or District of Innovation plan. The team met on Oct. 10, 20, 27, and Nov. 3 to discuss the components of this DOI plan and sought input from the Board throughout the process.

The draft plan is available online with the option for community members and stakeholders to provide input for 30 days; the commissioner of education will then be notified; and then on Dec. 12 the District's Site-Based Innovation Team will present the plan to the Board of Trustees for approval.

Under HB 1842, District of Innovation designations and their associated Local Innovation Plans are valid for five years. However, the team will continue to meet over the course of that time period and recommend suggested modifications to the DOI plan to be adopted by the Board.

Please take some time to review the proposed plan below.

Contact:
Dr. Thomas O'Neal
Deputy Superintendent
(903) 891-6400
toneal@shermanisd.net