Houston ISD Becomes District of Innovation, Approves Changes to School Year and Teacher Hiring

The Houston Independent School District (HISD) School Board has approved plans for HISD to become a District of Innovation (DOI), granting the district exemptions from certain state requirements. This includes flexibility in areas such as the school calendar and hiring uncertified teachers. The DOI status will allow HISD to implement changes aimed at improving instruction and student development. The district plans to propose an extended academic calendar for the 2024-25 school year, starting no earlier than August 7, 2024. Other exemptions include implementing professional development, expanding postsecondary pathways, and creating a rigorous teacher appraisal system. The move has faced criticism from the Houston Federation of Teachers, who argue that the plan undermines education quality and transparency.