Sherman ISD Building Bearcats Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 8

A District of Innovation
We’ve grown accustomed to hearing the word
“innovation” when talking about advancements
in technology. Smart phones, mobile devices, the
Amazon Echo, even self-driving cars all serve as
great examples of innovation - so much so, that we
automatically think of these inventions as cutting
edge. We don’t have to question what innovation
means or what it looks like in the context of
these advancements.
But how does innovation come to life in the world
of education? What does innovation in education
mean and, more importantly, what does it look like?
Is it technology in the classroom, or more
experiential learning through hands-on training,
internships, and practicum experiences? Maybe
it’s rigorous curricula and challenging Advanced
Placement and dual credit courses, or partnerships
with area colleges and regional universities.
Perhaps innovation takes the shape of more
student-led learning through digital classrooms
that include international opportunities, or opt-out
programming that allows students to demonstrate
mastery of a subject without the need to sit
through a traditional class. Innovation could
conceivably be any or all of these things and more.
Innovation in Sherman ISD is about the possibilities.
It’s about thinking differently and being open
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to support educational initiatives that benefit
students, staff, parents, and the broader Sherman
community, all while keeping the focus on student
needs and providing an exceptional education. It’s
about developing and implementing educational
experiences that best fit and meet the needs
of students.
That’s why the district passed a resolution last
spring to become a Texas District of Innovation,
which gives Texas school districts that meet state
standards the flexibility to declare exemption
from various state mandates. The district wanted
greater local control and flexibility in decision-
making regarding school year calendars, student
schedules, guidelines for hiring qualified teachers,
and student attendance.
Superintendent Dr. David Hicks puts it this way:
“To think differently about education we must be
able to respond differently.” He and his leadership
team believe the District of Innovation designation
provides the freedom needed to execute
innovations that will reshape public education to
better meet the needs of students today as well
as tomorrow.
The decision to become a District of Innovation
was made as a community. The SISD Board of
Trustees adopted a resolution indicating the