Bill Analyses and Ratings

Rating: 0

Bill Summary:
Senate Bill 1213 (2025) appropriates an additional $5 million from the General Fund to the Public Schools Educational Support Program’s Division of Central Services for Fiscal Year 2026. The funds are designated to support intensive professional development and coaching in early literacy focused on the “science of reading.” Under this program, all kindergarten through third grade teachers will receive training on a three-year cycle, with efforts extended—when resources permit—to include elementary administrators and support staff. The bill also mandates that schools identified as underperforming (the bottom 25% based on the most recent Idaho Reading Indicator scores) receive prioritized support, including the possible use of pay-for-success models to drive improvements. Additionally, the State Department of Education is required to report on the distribution, expenditure, and outcomes of these funds by January 5, 2026. An emergency clause makes this act effective on July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
While Senate Bill 1213 expands funding for a critical area of education—early literacy—it does so through targeted professional development rather than broad, unchecked spending. The bill’s focus on measurable outcomes (via a three-year training cycle, prioritization of underperforming schools, and mandated reporting) reflects a disciplined approach to enhancing educational support without expanding unnecessary bureaucracy. However, it does not introduce major reforms to increase local control or integrate private sector alternatives, which are core priorities in the Idaho Republican Platform. In balancing improved academic support with ongoing state education spending, the bill aligns with essential government functions without overreach, thus earning a neutral rating.