Innovation zones help state policy leaders create space in state policy for local educators to design innovative education models. They allow local districts or schools to request a waiver from outdated state policies and regulations that communities have identified as a barrier to high-quality, student-centered learning. These models are also known as "districts of innovation" or "schools of innovation;" the concept name varies from state to state. This issue brief describes innovation zones, explains why they are important, and provides examples of legislation, statutes or regulations creating innovation zones. It concludes with a recommendation for state policymakers.