This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to improve the framework for virtual education programs and public charter schools. It allows school districts to offer virtual instruction and blended programs, enabling them to count average daily attendance under specific guidelines. The bill requires school districts providing virtual education to maintain records verifying student residency and mandates that contracts with educational service providers receive approval from the school district board of trustees. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for virtual schools, including the need for authorizer approval of contracts and the provision of annual proof of residency and financial statements. The legislation also revises definitions related to public charter schools, stipulating that only the public charter school commission can authorize virtual schools and clarifying the approval process for new charter schools.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new admission procedures for public charter schools, mandating that initial admissions be determined by a lottery or random method, with preferences for certain groups of students. It allows for weighted lotteries to favor educationally disadvantaged students and requires public charter schools to notify the public about enrollment opportunities. Financial support adjustments are also included, ensuring that facilities funds for charter schools are adjusted annually based on discretionary funding changes. The bill clarifies funding mechanisms for special education, transportation, and virtual schools, and establishes a payment schedule for charter schools. Notably, it includes provisions for an emergency declaration, making the act effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-1619, 33-5202A, 33-5203, 33-5206, 33-5207