State superintendent Debbie Critchfield is looking forward to working with Idaho parents on a new committee for the Empowering Parents grant program. Announced by Gov. Brad Little Tuesday, the Parent Advisory Committee will advise the State Board of Education on program improvements and administration.

The council will be made up of seven Idaho parents, representing all regions of the state. Any parent with a K-12 student can apply. Priority will be given to those who’ve applied for Empowering Parents funding or who intend to.

“Input from parents is essential and this is one more way we can tap into parents to help shape Idaho education,” Critchfield said. “I’m excited to work with the council and hear directly from parents on how we can take advantage of all that Empowering Parents offers our state.”

Critchfield attended Tuesday morning’s announcement by the governor, before heading to the State Department of Education for a meeting with her executive team. She also met with Reps. Josh Wheeler, R-Ammon; Britt Raybould, R-Rexburg; and Colin Nash, D-Boise.

Tuesday afternoon, the superintendent discussed student safety issues with U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho Josh Hurwit, and will attend the Idaho Association of General Contractors legislative reception this evening.