New Legislation established in 2025 are causing significant changes in Idaho schools this school year. While some laws directly affect students and families, others provide more support to teachers.
$5 million will be used by one new law to train K-3 teachers in improved reading strategies Lawmakers believe that this will speed up young children’s reading development. Additionally, teachers will be receiving a 5% raise, and those who have worked for 25 years are eligible to apply for a lifetime certificate, which eliminates the need for license renewals. The goal of these changes is to increase the time that teachers spend in the classroom.
Other laws address the management of schools. Districts have to create rules to restrict the use of cellphones throughout the day.
Also, school boards have the authority to reject students who show serious behavior issues.
Additionally, a rule was approved that permits schools to prohibit banners or flags associated with social or political ideologies, possibly leading to debates about free expression.
Under the “Medical Freedom Act,” parents were granted more rights. Vaccines, masks and other safety measures cannot be enforced by schools. While some argue that this protects families, others are concerned that it might increase school-related illnesses.
According to House Bill 239, parents must now provide written consent before their child can participate in any human sexuality classes. Two weeks before the class, schools are required to share the materials with parents.
A new tax credit also allows families to spend up to $5,000 on the costs of private education, while colleges and universities are now required to discontinue their diversity and equity initiatives.
All things considered, the new rules increase income and choices, but they also raise concerns about fairness and health. The impact will be seen all year long by Idaho families, teachers, and students.
