District of Innovation

  • What is a District of Innovation?

    The District of Innovation concept is part of Texas House Bill 1842, passed during the 84th Legislative Session in 2014, and allows traditional school districts the opportunity to utilize flexible operation strategies similar to open­-enrollment charter schools. 

    View the GISD DOI Plan

    Background and Timeline
     
    At their May 16, 2016 meeting, the Georgetown ISD Board of Trustees adopted a resolution to initiate the process of exploring the option of designating GISD as a District of Innovation.
     
    The 84th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1842, which allows traditional public school districts to exempt themselves from certain education laws if they have a District of Innovation designation. To access the exemptions, a school district must adopt an innovation plan in accordance with Texas Education Code (TEC), chapter 12A.
     
    The GISD Board of Trustees held a public hearing on June 20, 2016, regarding the District of Innovation process. They will be voting on whether or not to continue pursuit of the District of Innovation designation at their July 25, 2016 regular board meeting.
     

    On February 8, 2017, the district advisory committee (locally called District Performance Council) held a public meeting to review the District of Innovation plan. Following the public meeting, the DPC approved the plan by a majority vote.

    The GISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the District of Innovation plan on February 8, 2017. As required by  19 TAC §102.1307 (d), Georgetown Independent School District submitted a letter notifying the Commissioner of Education of the district's destination as a District of Innovation and provided a copy of the DOI plan.    

    Mission

    Inspiring and empowering every learner to lead, grow, and serve.

    Vision

    Home of the most inspired students, served by the most empowered leaders. 

    GISD Strategic Plan

    The GISD District of Innovation initiative fits within Strategy 2, Strategy 4, and Strategy 5 of the district’s strategic plan.

    Strategy 2: We will inspire and invite the community and corporate engagement.

    Strategy 4: We will improve educational experiences utilizing relevant technology.

    Strategy 5: We will redesign our learning model to include customization and innovation at all levels.

    Through the DOI opportunities, GISD may choose to seek specific innovations in relation to flexible curriculum, unique instruction methods, parent and community involvement, and budgeting options.