About Schools of Innovation

A creative alternative to the existing instructional and administrative practices.

The primary purpose of Schools of Innovation is to improve learning for all students. Schools of Innovation have the flexibility to explore new and creative alternatives to existing instructional and administrative practices. Schools of Innovation bring together diverse stakeholders to plan, implement, and reflect to ensure academic success and learning for all.


Want to become a School of Innovation?

intent to APPLY

SOI Application Timeline

August

August 24, 2023 – 10:00-11:30

Overview of SOI Application Process (virtual meeting)

September
  • Wednesday, September 6th, [1:00-2:30 PM] – Zoom Meeting: Overview of SOI application process
  • Friday, September 22nd – Intent to Apply due
October
  • Wednesday, October 18th [9:00-2:00] – SOI new application training, Location: TBD
November

Personalized support by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Office of Innovation for Education (OIE) through regional meetings, Zoom, webinar opportunities, and school site visits.

December

Tuesday, December 12th [9:00-2:00] – SOI final application training support, Location: TBD

January

Personalized support by DESE and OIE through regional meetings, Zoom webinar opportunities, and school site visits

February

Tuesday, February 13th [9:00-11:30 a.m.] – SOI Application Virtual Meeting for all schools to finalize their application. Legal services and other DESE staff will be available to discuss waivers, course approvals, CTE, and other information.

March
  • Friday, March 1st – Draft of SOI Application available for DESE to review by 4:30 p.m.
  • Initial feedback from DESE and OIE available in the SOI portal for schools. Personalized support provided by DESE and OIE.
April

Ongoing feedback from DESE and OIE available in the SOI portal for schools to make appropriate revisions and edits to the application. Personalized support provided by DESE and OIE.

May
  • Monday, May 1st- Final SOI application due to DESE by 4:30 p.m.
  • SOI committee reviews SOI applications and makes recommendations to the Secretary of Education
June
  • Secretary of Education review of SOI Applications for approval
  • Secretary of Education notifies schools of decision
  • 2024 Innovation Rally in Jonesboro, Arkansas

How will OIE support you on your journey to SOI?

Our primary goal is to create an ecosystem where members can learn, teach and realize shared goals through innovative strategies and shared programs. Collaborative channels for communication and sharing of knowledge are vital for innovation to succeed, the first step in the process is to build relationships. We look forward to working collaboratively with you and becoming part of the innovation ecosystem.

Innovation rally

Establish lasting relationships with innovative leaders in the state and nation.

Application support

Technical assistance throughout the application process with on-site support and trainings by OIE.

designing for innovation framework

The framework reflects the research and work of innovators across Arkansas, the nation, and globe committed to the success of all learners.

School visits

Innovation in action – Ask questions, share innovative ideas, gather resources, and learn from other educators.

SCHOOLS OF INNOVATION IN ARKANSAS

A CASE STUDY OF IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES AND EARLY IMPACTS

“I’ve seen the growth…and it’s unbelievable….School of Innovation is the change that needs to happen.”

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QUESTIONS?