Voices

Legislators can and should change the underlying incentives within Idaho’s education system to shift decision-making power to those closest to the student (parents).

Unfortunately, this year’s legislative session is already seeing another round of attacks seeking to weaken traditional schools and syphon resources away.

In places where education choice is allowed, the results are impressive and the future for children improves. That is what’s most important.

Our leaders can achieve these eight goals if they are serious about improving Idaho education.

My theory is that the Idaho Freedom Foundation has sustained substantial damage to its credibility so MSPC was called in to present a gentler voice in advocating for the same things.

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…

Now I was born, raised, and educated here in Idaho. I can tell Mr. Cargill now that I’ve seen my kids through over half of the K-12 grades that not a lot has changed since I was in the schools.

Every little bit we can do to save now makes a difference over time as those resources are invested and managed in the marketplace.

Should a state spend 60% of its budget on K-12? How about 80%? What other priorities would be squeezed out if policymakers decided to pour even more into K-12?