What exactly is a District of Innovation (DOI), and what does it mean for an educator to work in such districts? Since 2015, Texas school districts have been able to adopt the DOI designation in order to exempt themselves from certain legal requirements of the Texas Education Code. DOIs purport that this additional flexibility and local control allow them to better serve their students and even staff. But DOIs have opened the door to questions regarding teacher contracts and certifications. What sort of protection do educators working in DOIs have from other exemptions that could affect their schedules, class size, leave, or even appraisals?

In this episode of The ATPE Podcast, we ask ATPE Staff Attorney Lance Cain what the law requires of Districts of Innovation and how that designation can affect educators in those districts.

The legal information provided here is accurate as of the date of publication. It is provided here for informative purposes only. Individual legal situations vary greatly, and readers needing individual legal advice should consult directly with an attorney. Please note: Rights based on the Texas Education Code may not apply to all. Many Texas Education Code provisions do not apply to public charter schools, and public school districts may have opted out of individual provisions through a District of Innovation plan. Eligible ATPE members may contact the ATPE Member Legal Services Department.