New Idaho law makes state funds available for private schools

POST FALLS, Idaho — Parents in Idaho will soon be able to use state funds for any school of their choice.

Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 93 into law, establishing a parental choice tax credit which can direct public funds to private schools.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Legislative leaders in Idaho push for school choice, critics fear education inequality is at risk

Wired2Learn is a nonprofit private school serving 19 students in Post Falls. It focuses on kids with learning disabilities, ADHD and autism. Tuition ranges from $20,000 to $35,000.

“The tuition is really expensive for us to provide this kind of work, the correct kind of treatment and remediation, the right ratios, ratios are six to one students to a learning coach,” said Wired2Learn founder, Alyssa Pukkila.

The new law could reduce tuition costs by up to $7,500 for students with special needs.

“For the kids that I work with, it would benefit them hugely,” Pukkila said.

Pukkila is a strong supporter of HB93, believing it will make education more accessible across the state.

“It’s a lonely place to be when the school systems should be helping your kid out, but they’re struggling to do that,” she said.

Public school districts across the state oppose the program, expressing concerns over taxpayer dollars funding private schools.

In a statement to 4 News Now, Coeur d’Alene Public Schools said “disappointed” would be an understatement regarding the governor’s decision:

“At the beginning of the legislative session, Little told Idaho’s citizens and its legislators that doing things right and keeping promises is critical. He was clear then that any expansion of publicly funded school choice must be fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable. HB93 will use public tax dollars to subsidize private institutions without meeting any of the expectations Little described in January. To say we are disappointed in the Governor’s decision to sign House Bill 93 is an understatement.”

Superintendents in North Idaho signed a joined letter to Gov. Brad Little, in opposition of HB 93. West Bonner School District Superintendent Kim Spacek, argues these dollars should be going towards the public education system.

“Idaho doesn’t fund well, but still what we have and what they organized throughout their state for public education it needs to be funded so we can educate kids with opportunities everybody wants.” said Spacek.

Pukkila acknowledged public schools are the best option for many children, but sees this bill as a valuable opportunity for families seeking alternative education options.

“I think that this will allow parents in our state to take a deep breath and be able to choose what is best for their child,” she said.