I am a firm believer in the value of a strong public school system. It is likely no surprise the Idaho Freedom Foundation is doing all that it can to undermine the system. The Quality Education Initiative that will be on the ballot this year would provide $323 million in additional funding for our schools each year. That cost would be covered by an increased tax rate on corporations and an additional tax on individuals earning over $500,000 in a year. The IFF is spreading misinformation about the tax increase, it does not raise every Idahoans tax rate. The funding is also not intended to allow indoctrination of young minds. I will remind you that the State of Idaho is expected to see a $2 billion dollar surplus after a significant surplus last year, the investment in our public system could be funding education needs today. The State did a good job last year of funding the teacher career ladder and better health benefits, there is more to do to attract and retain the teaching talent needed to assure our children being prepared for a productive work career.
School funding is critical to the future economic growth of our state. This year there are $288 million in bond issues planned to support school operations or build facilities. In addition Kuna school district is considering a $300 million bond issue to build and repair their school infrastructure and Idaho Falls projects a $250 million request. Idaho school funding per pupil has not moved above 50th in the nation even with the recent increases. There is more to the issue than just funding the public education system and work remains on equitable distribution, outcomes, go on rates, mental health, early learning and the list goes on. Edweek’s recent Quality Counts report ranked Idaho 17th for student achievement among all states, our limited funding is producing results. We have miles to go before we declare victory.
The Boise school system is holding its election on Sept 6th. Today, any public position can be controversial. School boards are no exception, the onslaught of misinformation and paranoia make every meeting potentially confrontational. I encourage everyone to review the Idaho Education News forum of the potential candidates. I applaud what has been accomplished by the current incumbents. I am supporting Beth Oppenheimer, David Wagers, Andy Hawes, and Elizabeth Langley. I think Steve Schmidt has represented us well. I do want to highlight the candidacy of soon to be l8 year old Shiva Rajbhandan, a Boise High student. You cannot miss the many Shiva yard signs, because he has knocked on so many doors introducing himself and speaking to his motivation. Shiva will be a leader for Idaho well into the future. I hope you will take the time to Vote.
The grandchildren are back in school. Karen cried on opening day for the girl’s, she did the same thirty some years ago when our girls started school. The future of Idaho is relying on us to get them prepared for an ever changing world.
Enjoy the week end. Mike
Back to School
