As the legislative session approached, education leaders across Idaho are voicing a common concern: Special Education funding is inadequate and is placing an immense strain on our schools. This issue was front and center when Region 2 administrators and board members recently met with Representative Lori McCann. Every administrator at the table—regardless of district size or funding model—echoed the same challenge: we need more resources to effectively support students with unique learning needs.

As the only charter school administrator in the room, I saw firsthand how funding disparities impact different types of public schools in unique ways. While all public schools face challenges, charter schools operate under distinct financial constraints. Unlike traditional districts, charter schools do not have access to local property tax revenue through bonds and levies. Instead, we rely solely on state and limited federal funding to meet the same accountability standards as all other public schools in Idaho. This funding model creates significant challenges when serving students with higher needs, as we do not have the ability to generate additional local revenue to bridge funding gaps.

At our school, we are deeply committed to providing a high-quality education to every student, regardless of their learning needs. Our enrollment includes a growing number of students with disabilities, and we take pride in our inclusive approach. Currently, we have one Special Education specialist managing a caseload of over 40 students, supported by limited aide positions. Many of these students require one-on-one assistance, and this number does not even account for the increasing population of students on 504 plans who also require additional accommodations. Over the past two years, we have seen a sharp increase in the number of students needing specialized support, stretching our already limited resources to the breaking point.

Our experience highlights a critical reality: educating students with unique needs is significantly more expensive. Providing specialized instruction, hiring additional staff, offering assistive technology, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations all require funding beyond what is currently allocated. While every public school grapples with these challenges, charter schools face them without the financial flexibility of levies, making sustainable funding solutions even more urgent.

This is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s about real students who deserve the support they need to succeed. When funding falls short, schools are forced to make difficult decisions—whether that means larger caseloads, fewer support staff, or fewer resources for interventions. None of these choices serve students well.

If Idaho is serious about providing a high-quality education for all students, we must address the reality that some students require more resources to achieve equitable outcomes. Increased investment in Special Education is not just an expense—it’s an investment in Idaho’s future. Every dollar allocated toward supporting these students will have a lasting impact, ensuring that all children, regardless of ability, receive the education they deserve.

As legislators consider the future of education funding in our state, my hope is that they recognize the growing needs of students with disabilities and commit to meaningful, sustainable funding solutions. Idaho’s children are counting on us.