School insurance trust exhausts reserves

The Idaho School Benefit Trust burned through its reserves in 2026, leaving nearly 100 districts and charters to confront a health insurance crisis that had been building for years.

The trust’s fund balance fell from $22.5 million in August 2021 to $2.1 million in August 2025. Manager Debbie Hainke notified members of a shortfall in July but has declined to provide members or EdNews with financial documents.

EdNews has tracked the trust’s unraveling through public records, interviews and reporting. Our continuing coverage will investigate the ultimate cost to teachers and taxpayers.

Reporters break down Idaho School Benefit Trust in new ‘EdNews Show’ episode

Kevin Richert and Sean Dolan explain what it means for teachers and how it might impact taxpayers.

08/22/2026

Benefit trust tells members they have to cover $13 million shortfall — first payment is due in September

Member school districts and charters can either pay a lump sum or make monthly payments.

08/20/2026

Idaho’s top insurance regulator knew school trust was in trouble before it ran out of money

Dean Cameron told the state superintendent that the Idaho School Benefit Trust had been "walking a tight line" for as long as he could remember.

08/18/2026

Idaho Department of Insurance could take over depleted school benefit trust

The Idaho School Benefit Trust experienced "catastrophic scales of loss." Now the state regulatory agency says it is working to protect school district employees.

07/30/2026

School health insurance trust that ran out of money weighs options to pay Blue Cross

After exhausting its reserves, the Idaho School Benefit Trust met last week with the health insurance company to discuss ways to pay off a shortfall that’s likely more than $10 million.

07/28/2026

Insurance trust has run out of money, and Idaho schools have to pay the debt

School leaders are anxiously awaiting more communication from the Idaho School Benefit Trust.

07/24/2026