For years, Sen. Janie Ward-Engelking has been one of Idaho’s strongest and most unwavering champions for children, families, and public education. But during the 2026 session, that leadership mattered more than ever.

As schools across Idaho struggle under rising costs, growing student needs, and increasing demands on teachers and staff, Senator Ward-Engelking brought something desperately needed to the Legislature – a deep knowledge of education, compassion for families, and the courage to speak honestly about the consequences of harmful policy decisions.

Despite repeated claims that K-12 education was “protected,” the reality facing Idaho schools tells a very different story.

This session delivered devastating blows to public education: (Cuts to K-12 Education)

• $7.5 million cut from transportation funding
• $13.8 million cut from Idaho Digital Learning Alliance funding, while capping student access
• No new salary investments for educators
• No additional discretionary funding for schools facing inflationary pressures
• An unfunded special education gap now exceeding $100 million
• A permanent 3% reduction to the State Department of Education, which will impact continuing education of our teachers, among other issues
• $9 million reduction in healthcare support for districts outside the state plan, shifting even greater burdens onto local schools

These cuts come at a time when schools are being asked to do more than ever before. Districts are struggling to recruit and retain teachers, educators are stretched beyond capacity, and schools continue to serve as the front lines for student mental health, safety, nutrition, and stability.

And yet, instead of supporting educators, lawmakers ended the session with anti-union legislation pushed through without public hearings or a transparent public process—further eroding trust among teachers who already feel overworked, under-supported, and unheard.

(Idaho Senate OK’s new restrictions for teachers unions | Boise State Public Radio)

Through every debate, every JFAC budget hearing, and every difficult vote, Senator Ward-Engelking never lost sight of the human impact behind the numbers. She understands that schools are not line items on a spreadsheet—they are the heart of our communities and the foundation of opportunity for Idaho children.  As she often says, “ I believe every child deserves an opportunity to succeed, and public education is the great equalizer.”

She understands something that too many policymakers forget: when public education is weakened, children and families always pay the price.

What makes Senator Ward-Engelking exceptional is that her advocacy is rooted not in ideology or political theater, but in preparation, experience, and genuine care for Idaho families. She listens. She asks hard questions. She brings educators, parents, and experts into the conversation. And she continues to fight for practical solutions that strengthen—not dismantle—public education.

Leadership matters most in difficult moments. This year, Senator Janie Ward-Engelking showed Idaho what principled, informed, and compassionate leadership looks like.

We are deeply grateful for her decades of service and proud to honor her as a fierce and tireless advocate for Idaho’s children and families.

Idaho Children Are Primary Inc (ICAP), is a non-profit 501(c)4 organization led by a group of child-care experts with the common goal of advocating for the well-being of children and families in the state of Idaho