New Charter Schools Enrich Idaho's Educational Landscape

In recent months, Idaho has welcomed several new charter schools, each offering unique educational opportunities to students across the state.

In August 2024, Idaho Novus Classical Academy opened its doors in the Avimor community near Eagle. This tuition-free public charter school currently serves students from kindergarten through sixth grade, with plans to expand by adding one grade level each year until it becomes a K-12 institution. The academy emphasizes an American Classical Education, focusing on both academic excellence and character development.

Also in August 2024, Elevate Academy East commenced operations in Idaho Falls. Catering to students in grades six through ten, this career-technical public charter school specializes in trades-based education. Elevate Academy offers hands-on learning experiences in fields such as construction, welding, manufacturing, business, marketing, and graphic design, aiming to prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation.

Looking ahead, the North Idaho Classical Academy is set to open near Bonners Ferry in August 2025. Approved by the Idaho Public Charter School Commission, this institution will serve students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, gradually expanding its offerings over time. The academy will implement a curriculum developed in partnership with Hillsdale College, emphasizing classical education principles.

Additionally, Gem Prep Charter School plans to break ground on a new campus in Ammon in September 2024, with an anticipated opening in July 2025. This K-12 institution focuses on preparing students for college, offering high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses with the goal of earning an associate degree upon graduation. Enrollment will prioritize students in the Ammon area, with remaining seats available to others.

The Alturas charter network is also expanding with the planned opening of Alturas Academy North in Rigby, scheduled for fall 2026. This new K-8 public charter school will serve students across the Jefferson, Madison, Ririe, and Bonneville school districts. It will adopt the same small-group instruction model and International Baccalaureate (IB) programming as its sister schools, Alturas International Academy and Alturas Preparatory Academy in Idaho Falls. The expansion aims to address the educational needs of the rapidly growing Rigby community and alleviate waitlist pressures at existing Alturas campuses.

Idaho Home Learning Academy converted to a charter school in 2024. They are an online school through the Oneida School District.

These new charter schools reflect Idaho's commitment to diversifying educational options, providing families with innovative and specialized learning environments tailored to meet the varied needs of students across the state.

See All Idaho Charter Schools Here

School Choice Bills Updated Here: H 93 and SB 1025

2/5/2025

House Bill 93 (HB 93) – Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit

Summary:

B 93 proposes the establishment of the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit, allowing parents to claim a refundable tax credit of up to $5,000 per eligible student for qualified educational expenses.he bill also introduces the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit Advance Payment Fund to assist lower-income families by providing advance payments for these expenses.he aim is to empower parents in directing their children's education by alleviating financial barriers.

Senate Bill 1025 (SB 1025) – Empowering Parents Grant Program and Red Tape Reduction

Summary:

B 1025 seeks to enhance educational opportunities by amending existing laws to establish the Idaho Public Education Red Tape Reduction Program, revising provisions of the Empowering Parents Grant Program, and updating enrollment measurement criteria. The bill aims to streamline administrative processes, reduce unnecessary reporting requirements for public schools, and provide grants to parents for educational expenses, thereby promoting greater flexibility and support within Idaho's education system.

Legislative Progress:

• HB 93: his bill has successfully passed out of the Revenue and Taxation Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation and is now filed for its second reading in the House.

• SB 1025: he bill has been read a second time in the Senate and is now filed for its third reading.

  We will continue to monitor the progress of these bills and provide updates as they move through the legislative process.

What Idaho’s Senate Bill 1025 Means for Parents

As parents, we all want what’s best for our children when it comes to their education. The Idaho Legislature is considering Senate Bill 1025 (SB 1025), a bill designed to expand educational options, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and increase funding for special education. If you’re looking for more choices in your child’s education, here’s what this bill could mean for you.

How SB 1025 Empowers Parents

1. More Financial Support for Education Choices

• Expands the Empowering Parents Grant Program to provide up to $5,000 per student.

• Covers pre-K through 12th grade (previously limited to K-12), meaning younger children can benefit earlier.

• Parents can use these funds for tuition, educational therapies, curriculum, technology, and more.

What This Means for You:

• If you’ve been considering homeschooling, micro-school, or private school, this funding can help make it financially possible.

• Families of younger children can access pre-kindergarten educational support.

• Greater flexibility to customize your child’s education to meet their unique needs.

2. Stronger Support for Special Education Needs

• Adds $30 million annually to better support students with disabilities.

• Ensures public and charter schools receive more funding to provide special education services.

What This Means for You:

• If your child has special needs, their school will have better resources and support to accommodate them.

• Charter schools will be better equipped to provide individualized education programs (IEPs) and specialized instruction.

3. Less Red Tape, More Focus on Students

• Reduces state-imposed administrative burdens, letting schools focus on students instead of paperwork.

• Ensures schools only need to report what’s federally required or legislatively approved every three years.

What This Means for You:

• Schools can dedicate more time and resources to educating students rather than excessive paperwork.

• Charter schools may have more flexibility to innovate and meet student needs.

4. Clearer, More Transparent School Enrollment Options

• Standardizes open enrollment policies across the state.

• Requires schools to report their capacity, helping parents make informed choices.

What This Means for You:

• If you’ve ever been frustrated with school enrollment confusion, this bill ensures clearer and more accessible school choice information.

• If your preferred school has space, you’ll have an easier path to transferring your child.

What Does This Mean for Different Types of Schools?

• Charter Schools: More special education funding, reduced administrative burdens, and easier access for families looking to enroll.

• Traditional Public Schools: Additional funding for special education, but may continue to see families opting for alternatives.

• Homeschooling or Micro School Families: More financial support through grants to cover learning materials, curriculum, and educational resources.

• Private Schools: Increased access for families looking to enroll their children, thanks to expanded financial assistance.

Final Thoughts

SB 1025 is a significant step toward giving parents more control over their children’s education. Whether you’re considering a charter school, homeschooling, private school or another alternative, this bill helps create a stronger, more flexible education system that works for all families.

As the Idaho Legislature debates this bill, it’s important for parents to stay informed and engaged. Your voice matters in shaping the future of education in Idaho!

New School Choice Bill Expands Empowering Parents Grants and Provides Public School Funding

Senate Bill 1025 Expands the Empowering Parents Grant Program to include grants to parents to help cover the cost of private school tuition. The bill includes $30m for Special Education in Public Schools and red tape cuts for public school districts.

Details here from KTVB: