IdahoH 06242026 regular legislative sessionHouseWALLET

EDUCATION – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding virtual public education in Idaho.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

CTE funding parity for charter teachers

Beginning July 1, 2026, teachers with a charter-school-specific certificate can teach CTE. Those CTE programs receive the same added-cost funding as programs taught by occupational specialist teachers.

Fairer, clearer charter school admissions

Beginning July 1, 2026, if a charter has more applicants than seats, it must use a fair selection. Priority includes founders' children (up to 10% of seats), siblings, returning charter transfers under agreement, and local residents. Schools may weight lotteries for educationally disadvantaged students. Lotteries happen within seven days of the deadline with at least 48 hours' public notice. Schools send offers within seven days; parents must sign and return by the date given. If projections are low and a wait list exists, schools can add students per grade without going over the charter cap.

Stronger oversight of virtual charter schools

Beginning July 1, 2026, a virtual charter school is a full-time online program that uses internet-based lessons and tools. Virtual school boards must approve provider contracts before signing, and schools must show Idaho residency to the authorizer on request. Assets bought with public money stay the school's property. If school funds fall short, providers may have to take on the school's financial risk and share audited financial statements. No more than one-third of a board can be from a nonprofit provider, and for-profit providers cannot sit on boards. Charter holders stay responsible for results and can end contracts after notice and a chance to fix problems.

Learning funds: covered items, no cash

Beginning July 1, 2026, schools may set aside state learning funds for items like computers, internet, textbooks, and educational apps. The State Board sets the detailed list. Schools or districts must place orders directly; families do not receive the money. Districts, charters, and providers cannot pay state funds directly to parents. Funds may be used for all courses, including electives.

Tighter rules for district virtual classes

Beginning July 1, 2026, districts can run full-time online or blended classes and count attendance under state rules. District boards must approve virtual learning contracts and any changes before signing. Providers must disclose the services they deliver, their costs, and how costs are calculated, and programs must have conflict-of-interest rules. Virtual curriculum must meet State Board standards and be documented. Districts must share required virtual program data with the State Board. Teachers in virtual programs must hold Idaho teaching certificates. Families must show Idaho residency to enroll in district virtual programs.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Affiliation unavailable

Cosponsors

Dave Lent
Republican • Senate
Douglas T. Pickett
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 100 • No: 0

House vote • 3/5/2026

House Floor Vote

Yes: 32 • No: 0

House vote • 2/13/2026