As the Superintendent of the American Falls School District, I see firsthand the challenges that school districts across Idaho face in providing education for all students. That is why I strongly support Senate Bill 1096, which proposes a weighted student funding formula for discretionary funds in public schools. This bill is not just about dollars; it is about ensuring that students with greater educational needs receive the resources necessary to succeed.
In American Falls, nearly 70% of our students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Many of these students come from hardworking families where parents are doing their best, often working multiple jobs, but still struggle to meet their family’s basic needs. This reality means that schools must provide additional support, whether through intervention programs, access to nutrition, or extended learning opportunities. Unfortunately, the current funding system does not fully account for the fact that some students require more resources than others to reach the same academic benchmarks.
Students across Idaho enter the classroom with a wide range of abilities and learning needs. Some require specialized instruction, additional academic interventions, or access to mental health resources. Others need support in developing fundamental literacy and math skills to set them on a path toward success. Regardless of their background, every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and this bill helps provide the necessary funding to make that possible.
For schools like ours, meeting the needs of all students often requires hiring additional staff including reading and math specialists, interventionists, mental health professionals, and instructional aides. Without adequate funding, schools are forced to make difficult decisions, often stretching limited resources too thin. When funding is not allocated based on actual student needs, it is the most vulnerable children who suffer the most.
Beyond academics, many of our students face challenges outside of school that impact their ability to succeed in the classroom. Some do not have access to books at home, a quiet space to complete homework, or the support needed to reinforce learning outside of school. Others may be dealing with food insecurity, housing instability, or other hardships that create barriers to academic success. Schools must provide additional wraparound services, after-school programs, and outreach efforts to bridge these gaps, but we cannot do it alone.
Senate Bill 1096 would allow schools across Idaho to better support students based on their actual needs. The weighted funding formula recognizes that not all students require the same level of resources and ensures that those who need additional support receive it.
This bill is a step toward making Idaho’s school funding system more effective and responsive to student needs. It ensures that schools are equipped to meet the real challenges their students face, rather than forcing districts to make impossible choices between essential services. Senate Bill 1096 distributes funding in a way that reflects the true costs of educating students with additional needs.
I urge Idaho’s legislators to support SB 1096. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. As educators, we are committed to doing everything we can to help them, but we need a funding model that supports the reality of what it takes to meet the diverse needs of Idaho’s students. This bill is an investment in Idaho’s future, ensuring that every child has a chance to thrive.
