Bill > H0588

This bill amends existing Idaho law to revise provisions concerning virtual public education, aiming to clarify rules for both school districts and public charter schools offering online learning. Key changes include requiring school districts to provide specific information to the state board of education, mandating that contracts with educational services providers (entities that contract with schools to offer educational resources and support) for virtual learning be approved by the school district's board of trustees, and requiring proof of Idaho residency for all students enrolled in virtual programs. Additionally, the bill mandates that all curriculum materials, including supplemental ones, must meet state board of education content standards and that a system be in place to document this. For educational services providers contracting with schools, the bill requires a clear written disclosure of services and costs, demonstrating a direct link between public funds received and services provided. It also establishes policies for conflicts of interest for individuals employed by both a school district and its contracted educational services provider, and prohibits direct payment of state funds to parents or guardians for supplemental learning, instead requiring these funds to be used for eligible educational expenses through direct order by the school. The bill also clarifies that teachers in virtual education programs must hold a valid teaching certificate and that school districts retain authority over hiring, overseeing, and evaluating these teachers. For public charter schools, including virtual ones, the bill expands the definition of "educational services provider" to include those contracting with school districts, not just charter schools, and introduces new requirements for contracts between virtual schools and educational services providers, including board approval of contracts, proof of residency for students upon request, documentation of curriculum meeting state standards, and detailed cost disclosures from providers. It also specifies that supplemental learning funds for virtual schools must be used for eligible educational expenses, such as technology, textbooks, assessments, and therapies, and that these funds are to be expended through direct order by the virtual school. Finally, the bill clarifies that teachers in virtual schools, like those in traditional public schools, may hold either a standard teaching certificate or a charter school-specific teaching certificate.

Education

Education Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0588/