Memo Text
Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2801 states that a School of Innovation
(SOI) is a school that "transforms teaching and learning" and defines
innovation as "a new or creative alternative to the existing instructional
and administrative practices." SOI designated schools are engaged in
practices intended to improve academic performance and learning for all
students. For more information on Schools of Innovation, please visit the
Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Schools of Innovation web
page https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/schools-of-innovation.
The SOI process allows
schools the flexibility to try different approaches, experiment with innovative
ideas that challenge the status quo, and explore waiver possibilities that will
expand access to new learning opportunities. Join a cohort of over 40 Arkansas
schools designing systems to implement ideas and strategies that address all
learners' needs in a changing world!
New applicants to School
of Innovation are invited to join DESE and the Office of Innovation for
Education (OIE) for a Virtual Zoom session on either Thursday, August 24th
(10:00-11:30 a.m.) or Wednesday, September 6th (1:00-2:30 p.m.) for an overview
of the SOI application process and responses to any questions.
Please use the link below
to register in advance for one of the upcoming sessions:
After registering, you
will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the
virtual meeting.
Schools interested in
submitting an application to become a School of Innovation should complete and
submit the “Intent to Apply” form by Friday, September 22nd, 2023.
The Intent to Apply form is on the Office of Innovation Application Portal SOI Application, Designation & Renewal (https://innovativeed.org/soiapp/itas).
See attachment for an
overview of the application timeline.