State superintendent Debbie Critchfield earned a key endorsement from the educator class in her bid for reelection.

Critchfield, a Republican, is among the four dozen candidates endorsed by the Idaho Education Association’s Political Action Committee for Education (PACE).

The teachers’ union’s political arm did not endorse a candidate in the governor’s race. IEA earlier this year issued a “vote of no confidence” in incumbent Gov. Brad Little, a Republican, after he signed a bill prohibiting public schools from using taxpayer resources to accommodate teachers’ unions.

PACE sent candidates questionnaires then interviewed them before voting on endorsements.

“IEA members know pro-public education candidates come from every party,” IEA President and PACE committee chairwoman Peggy Hoy said in a news release. “Educators vetted each of these candidates. They understand that our schools, students and educators need respect and meaningful support to do their best work. This is your chance to use your voice in this election, and our endorsements are here to help you decide.”

Critchfield, who’s seeking a second term, faces Democrat Becky Sundin Mitchell and Teresa Roundy of the Constitution Party in next week’s election.

In a social media post last week, Critchfield said she was “honored” to receive PACE’s endorsement, adding that the distinction is only given to candidates who participate in a “formal review process led by educators across Idaho.”

“My first term, past positions, advocacy experience, and overall engagement were carefully scrutinized and my commitment has been verified,” she said.

PACE also endorsed independent candidate Todd Achilles in his challenge to incumbent U.S. Sen. Jim Risch, a Republican, and Democrat Kaylee Peterson, who’s hoping to unseat incumbent U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher, a Republican.

Altogether, PACE endorsed 48 candidates, including in dozens of races for the Idaho Legislature.

Click here to see the endorsements.