Teacher benefits
Benefit trust tells members they have to cover $13 million shortfall — first payment is due in September
Member school districts and charters can either pay a lump sum or make monthly payments.
Charter schools
Charter commission approves ‘final’ Gem Prep school
School board business
Coeur d’Alene donates portables to wildfire-damaged Washington district
School facilities
Emmett High’s dome days may be numbered
Career readiness
CEI Future Tech building opens to boost STEM pipeline
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Special Series
The Idaho School Benefit Trust ran out of money in 2026 — leaving nearly 100 districts and charters to confront a health insurance crisis that had been building for years.
The trust’s fund balance fell from $22.5 million in 2020 to $2.1 million in just four years. Manager Debbie Hainke notified members of a shortfall in July but has declined to provide members or EdNews with financial documents.
Emails also show Idaho’s top insurance regulator knew the trust was in financial trouble.
EdNews has tracked the trust’s unraveling through public records, interviews and reporting. Our continuing coverage will investigate the ultimate cost to teachers and taxpayers.
Opinion
Spelling it Out
This series aims to break down complex terms, ideas, and jargon in education and become a resource for taxpayers, educators, parents, and students.