Theresa Rae Stevens

This document outlines a local innovation plan designed for a school district, providing a framework for seeking exemptions from specific Texas Education Code (TEC) requirements. The plan aims to support a comprehensive educational program by identifying statutes that inhibit its goals, covering areas such as school district governance, educator employment, staff development, employee benefits, student attendance, and fiscal management. The intent is to allow for greater flexibility in achieving the district's educational objectives.

The Slidell Independent School District's District of Innovation Plan leverages state provisions to gain local control and operational flexibility from certain Texas Education Code requirements. It outlines strategies across multiple areas, including kindergarten-grade 4 class sizes, school start dates, length of the school day, teacher certification requirements, employee health coverage, teacher contract days, interdistrict transfers, planning and decision-making processes, planning and preparation time, staff professional development, and grievance procedures. The plan aims to empower the district to make innovative decisions, customize educational practices, enhance staff and student experiences, and ensure operational efficiency and accountability.

This District of Innovation Plan outlines Slidell ISD's strategy to gain local control and flexibility by seeking exemptions from specific Texas Education Code provisions, similar to charter schools. Key innovation areas include adjustments to kindergarten-grade 4 class sizes, school start dates, and the length of the school day, as well as modifications to teacher certification requirements, contract days, and staff professional development. The plan also addresses interdistrict transfers, planning and decision-making processes, and employee grievance procedures, aiming to empower the district to make innovative decisions for its students and staff over the period of 2026 to 2031.

The meeting focused on preparing for the upcoming year and establishing policy recommendations. Key discussion topics included the Summer Feeding Partnership Agreement in collaboration with Decatur ISD, planning the schedule and topics for future meetings, and reviewing community and staff engagement strategies for health promotion, specifically noting the successful outcome of a recent heart fundraiser.

The board meeting included a review of the Superintendent's report, which covered student enrollment numbers, attendance rates, school activity calendars, and current health and safety protocols regarding COVID-19. The board also reviewed the financial update for August 2021, expenditures for September 2021, and tax collection reports. An action item was approved to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding between Slidell ISD and Helen Farabee Centers for substance abuse services.