In January 2010, Governor Patrick signed historic education reform legislation that gives all students and families greater access to high-quality schools. The Innovation Schools initiative, a key component of this legislation, provides educators and other stakeholders in all districts across the state with the powerful opportunity to create new "Innovation Schools," in-district and charter-like schools that will operate with greater autonomy and flexibility with regard to curriculum, staffing, budget, schedule/calendar, professional development, and district policies. These public schools will be able to implement innovative strategies to improve student achievement while keeping school funding within districts.
Innovation Schools Presentation 
Additional Informational and Guidance Documents
In March 2011, the Executive Office of Education and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education awarded planning grants to support the establishment of 26 Innovation Schools in districts across Massachusetts. The following initial prospectuses, or preliminary plans for the proposed Innovation Schools, were submitted by grant recipients and represent a range of sponsoring districts, grade levels, and themes or areas of focus.
Funding to Support the Establishment of Innovation Schools
Information provided by the Executive Office of Education. Created: April 20, 2010; Updated: May 10, 2011.