The bill revises the structure and operations of the Idaho Digital Learning Academy by repealing the existing Section 33-5503, which previously defined the Academy Board of Directors, and establishing a new Section 33-5503. The new board will consist of nine members, including the state superintendent, district superintendents, a principal, citizen members with business experience, and legislative representatives. Additionally, a new Section 33-5504C is introduced to provide funding for distance students, allowing eligible schools to receive $400 per enrolled distance student. The amendments also clarify the board's duties, including compliance with state education rules and managing funds, while shifting the funding mechanism from state appropriations to a fee-based structure for users of the Academy's courses.

Furthermore, the bill updates the requirements for educational support programs and career exploration courses in public schools, mandating that students in grades 7 and 8 complete one or more career exploration courses starting in fiscal year 2024, with an opt-out option for parental consent. It also requires instructors of these courses to complete an approved professional development course. The funding structure for educational support programs is adjusted, with the deletion of provisions related to distributions to the Idaho Digital Learning Academy and the insertion of new funding allocations for charter school facilities, online course portals, advanced opportunities, and additional math and science courses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, following the declaration of an emergency.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-5502, 33-5503, 33-5504, 33-5504B, 33-5505, 33-5508, 33-1020, 33-1002, 33-1614