Idaho Governor Signs New School Choice Law
Something hoped for and worked on for many years, Idaho now has a program that helps parents pay for school choices other than regular public school. While many hope that this new law is just the beginning of better education in Idaho, others see this as a threat and are outspoken about it.
So, What's It All About?
The governor has authorized this $50 million program that gives a tax credit of $5,000 (or $7,500 for special needs students) for tuition and other education expenses for students in private school or even home-schooled. The way it works (at least as of this moment) is parents would apply during the 60 day filing period beginning January 15, 2026 and they would be notified within 30 days if they will receive the tax credit. The parent can get an advanced payment to get the student into a private school, if needed. Priority goes to families below 300% of the federal poverty level… about $95,000 gross for a family of four. If you get the tax credit in year one, you get priority for year two.
Idaho School Choice; Some Opinions
Idaho’s Attorney General Labrador says that, “Idaho finally has a law supporting real school choice.” He acknowledges that the law is not perfect but it’s a good start. In his letter, the AG anticipates legal attacks on this program and he “will be there to vigorously defend our school choice law every step of the way.”
Ron Nate, President of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, noted, “Public education doesn’t fit all children’s needs the best, and families should not have to pay double to educate their kids outside the public education system.”
Treasure Valley Dave says, “What’s the big deal?” Yes, it’s great that more educational options are available to Idaho’s kids. Yes, it’s great that Idaho parents don’t have to pay twice for education. And yes, it’s great to have competition that will make education better for all as parents vote with their dollars as to who provides the best educational experience.
Before this was signed into law, literally tens of thousands of reach-outs to the governor and lawmakers urged a stop this school choice effort. Why? It’s not the money; $2.5 Billion is spent EACH year on Idaho education and this program is budgeted at $50 Million. That’s like if you have $250 and now you have to give up $5. Not that big of a deal… financially speaking. But maybe for the Idaho Educational Complex it’s not about the money as much as it is about the results? If this comparatively small amount of money provides much improved educational results, the jig could be up for the establishment education system?
What are your thoughts? Please leave a comment below.
What Does Treasure Valley Dave Say?
Meet An Idaho Home-Schooling Family!
