Shared-Decision Making Committee (SDMC)​

What is the SDMC?

The Shared Decision-Making Committee (SDMC) is a group at every HISD school that brings together teachers, staff, parents, community members, and business representatives to help shape important decisions about the school. The SDMC helps review and recommend improvements related to academic goals, budgeting, staffing, curriculum, staff development, and school performance.

Who Serves on the SDMC?

Each SDMC is made up of a mix of:

• Classroom Teachers (at least 2/3 of professional staff)
• Other School-Based Professionals (e.g., specialists, counselors, librarians)
• Non-Instructional Staff (only one, such as clerical or custodial)
• Parents (at least two, selected by the school’s parent organization – PTA/PTO)
• Community Members (at least two, appointed by the principal)
• Business Representative (at least one, appointed by the principal)

All members serve two-year staggered terms and are selected through elections or appointments in May or August, depending on their role.

What Does the SDMC Do?

The SDMC advises the principal in several key areas:

• Developing the School Improvement Plan (SIP)
• Recommending the school budget and staff development plans
• Suggesting changes to curriculum and staffing patterns
• Reviewing student performance and campus goals
• Gathering input from the school community

The SDMC supports communication between the school and its community and meets monthly (and as needed) to review and make recommendations on school matters.

How Are Members Selected?

• Teachers and school staff are nominated and elected by their peers.
• Parents are selected by the school’s PTO/PTA.
• Community and Business Members are appointed by the principal to reflect the diversity of the community.
• Elections are held by secret ballot, and all nominees must agree to serve before being elected.

How Decisions Are Made

The SDMC works through a consensus-based approach, aiming for general agreement. If consensus can't be reached, a majority vote may be used. The principal has the final authority on most decisions, especially regarding finances, but staff development plans must be approved by the SDMC.

How to Get Involved or Submit Ideas

• Parents can submit ideas or concerns to any SDMC member or via a box in the school office.