According to information presented by district officials, the DOI status would allow HISD to change the school year start date, adjust teacher certification requirements for career and technical programs, and allow for flexibility in setting minimum attendance levels.
"We have to open our minds to our challenges ahead. ... We have to do what's best for the children," trustee Kathy Bluford-Daniels said.
The measure passed in a 7-2 vote, with trustees Anne Sung and Elizabeth Santos voicing opposition. The vote did not formally endorse any policy changes, but it does start the process for developing a DOI framework.
"There has always been unintended consequences for policies," Santos said ahead of the vote.
A motion by trustee Sung to postpone the vote failed 3-6. She wanted to see more information on the alternative year-long designation that also allows school calendar flexibility. Both Sung and Santos said changing teacher hiring requirements was concerning.
"I will be looking for extreme rigor in protecting teacher certification," Sung said.
All of the public comments presented to the board voiced also opposition to pursuing DOI.
With the resolution approved May 14, the district must now form a planning committee, hold a public hearing and consult with the district advisory committee. A final proposal could come back to the board for approval as early as October.
If adopted, it would take effect in the 2021-22 school year and could remain in place for up to five years. The Texas Education Agency recognizes 893 districts as DOI, including several local area districts as well as large urban districts Austin ISD, Dallas ISD and San Antonio ISD. While the TEA does not approve DOI plans, it can revoke the status if a district fails to meet performance standards.
Read the TEA's overview of the District of Innovation status below.
