Debbie Critchfield

Debbie Critchfield is Idaho's Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The value of training

The transition from willing community member to effective school leader doesn’t happen overnight.

New school year brings opportunities for many

As we reactivate our schools as central hubs throughout Idaho, I’d like us all to think about the many ways they add value to the places we live.

I don’t want to miss a critical opportunity

So, I’ve commenced an honest, intentional and important initiative at the State Department of Education: strategic planning.

Critchfield: Helping Schools Select Quality, Effective Curriculum is on the Agenda

The bottom line is that Idahoans care deeply about what our students learn in the classroom and want them to be prepared for life and the opportunities in a growing state.

Post-legislative tour is about connecting with school leaders

This is an annual State Department of Education practice and its timing is deliberate.

With elections in the rearview, it’s time to get to work

The year 2022 in Idaho brought with it long campaigns and high-profile races in the May primaries and November election. As a result, three of Idaho’s statewide offices have new leaders this week, including the office I now hold, superintendent of public instruction. With the rallies, speeches and debates of campaign season behind us, today…

Let’s prepare Idaho kids for Idaho jobs

I believe that we are responsible for developing adults who can manage their personal and financial decisions.

Personal finance should be required in high school

Our kids need to be taught how taxes, health insurance, credit scores, interest, and loans work, among other important financial skills.

Student success requires teachers and parents 

As your State Superintendent of Public Instruction, I will bridge the gap between the dinner table and the classroom.

A new vision for the students and parents of Idaho

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities school districts will face in the coming years is meeting parent expectations.