I love the principles from this video from Tyler Wye who identifies three elements that are necessary for teams to achieve extraordinary success.

House Bill 93 (HB 93) proposed to establish the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit, allowing families to receive a refundable tax credit of up to $5,000 for qualified educational expenses when enrolling their children in nonpublic schools. For special needs students, the credit increases to $7,500. The bill prioritizes low-income families (below 300% of the federal poverty level) and provides a one-time advance payment option. A refundable tax credit means that parents may claim this money even if they pay less than that amount in their annual taxes. The program is capped at $50 million in reduced state revenue annually.

House Bill 93 has passed both the House and Senate and is currently awaiting Governor Brad Little’s decision. If approved, this will mark the first time that Idaho tax dollars will be used to pay for personal private K-12 educational expenses.

Here is a summary of the pros and cons of House Bill 93 courtesy of Chat GPT.

1. Expanding School Choice:

• Supporters argue the bill gives parents greater control over their children’s education by providing financial support for alternatives to public schools.
• Families can customize education based on student needs.

2. Financial Feasibility:

• Representative Wendy Horman and others claim the program will not significantly harm public school funding.
• Similar programs in states like Arizona have been implemented without negatively impacting public education funding.

3. Accountability Measures:

• The Idaho State Tax Commission is tasked with auditing and reporting on the program.
• Nonpublic schools must be accredited or provide a portfolio demonstrating core academic instruction.
• Fraud prevention measures include audits and legal consequences for misuse.

1. Potential Harm to Public Schools:

• Critics, including educators and public school advocates, argue the bill will divert funding from public schools.
• Rural school districts may struggle if students leave, impacting funding allocations.

2. Lack of Oversight on Private Schools:

• Opponents worry that nonpublic schools are not held to the same transparency and academic accountability as public schools. For example, every dollar spent by Idaho public schools must be approved by the locally elected Board of Trustees and published on their web page for the public to review.
• Unlike public schools, private institutions are not required to administer standardized tests or follow state curriculum guidelines.

3. Public Opposition:

• A large portion of constituent feedback (94%) opposed the bill, raising concerns about fairness and its long-term effects on education funding.

4. Lack of Access:

• In other states, funds have largely been used to pay for educational expenses of children already enrolled in private schools.
• Opponents are concerned that private schools will not provide access to students who are racial minorities, have disabilities, or whose families cannot afford tuition costs above the amount provided as a tax credit.

Any Idaho citizen who would like to voice their opinion on this bill may call Governor Little's office at 208-334-2100. To respond to the volume of phone calls they are receiving, they have provided an automated message to separate House Bill 93 callers. It will ask you to press 1 for "sign the bill" or 2 "to veto the bill".

You can also email Governor Little at governor@gov.idaho.gov.

Exciting News! Kindergarten Registration is Coming!

Dear Families and Friends,

The time has come to welcome our newest little learners! If you have a child ready to start Kindergarten, or know someone who does, please help us spread the word—Kindergarten registration is happening at our schools on March 10, 2025!

We can’t wait to meet our future students and begin this wonderful journey together.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. See you soon!

D93 leaders joined the Idaho School Boards Association’s Day on the Hill to advocate for students, staff, and schools at the Capitol. Plus, House Bill 93 is one step away from becoming law—hear why local superintendents are urging a veto. Also, students at Praxium Academy got a hands-on experience with cutting-edge science and technology, thanks to a visit from the Idaho National Laboratory. And don’t miss details on D93’s upcoming hiring event! Stay tuned for all this and more on D93 News. #WeAreD93

The D93 Extra Mile Award celebrates those whose hard work and positive attitudes make a significant impact on our students, staff, and community. Thanks to our amazing friends at Rusty Taco, we’ll be recognizing those who go above and beyond with this special award! 🌮🙌

Calling all creative teens! Ever wanted to take apart old gadgets and turn them into something completely unique? Join us at the art museum for a hands-on night of sculpture-making using recycled materials! With guidance from a local artist, we’ll be taking apart old appliances, repurposing scrap materials, and transforming them into amazing 3D art. No experience needed just bring your imagination!
When: Friday, March 7th, 6:00–8:00 PM
Where: The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, 300 S. Capital Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83402
Who: Teens (ages 13-18)
Come break, rebuild, and bring your wildest ideas to life! Space is limited—sign up now at theartmuseum.org.
Art is for everyone and need-based scholarships are available! Please apply on our website!
D93 families get 10% off museum memberships! Enjoy free admission, invitations to special events and opening receptions, free admission to lectures, discounts on most classes and workshops, and a 10% discount in TAM's gift shop! Explore our other programming for elementary ages (including spring break camp!), middle school and adults (poetry slams, lectures, art sales, makers nights and more!)!

By popular demand, the D93 Store link has been activated for personal purchases. We will keep a link in the newsletter until the end of the school year so you know where to go to get the coolest swag around.

Thank you to our community partners at EIRMC for supporting our D93 News Family Update.