ST. ANTHONY, Idaho – After nearly two decades of teaching music at South Fremont High School, former band director Matt Bennett faced disciplinary action from the Idaho Professional Standards Commission for using school property to promote a $17 million auditorium bond in 2025.
Background of the bond effort
The bond measure sought to fund a new performing‑arts auditorium for the high school. Bennett posted a video in September 2025 that explained the need for a larger facility and was later shared on social media. The video was filmed in his school office and band room, using district computers and recording equipment, with students appearing in the background.
While the bond received support from some community members, it fell short of the two‑thirds majority required to pass in the November 2025 election.
Complaints and investigation
Residents Carl and Chelsea Grafe filed complaints in October 2025, alleging that Bennett’s video violated Idaho’s Public Integrity in Elections Act, which bars public employees from using taxpayer‑funded resources to influence ballot measures. The Grafes argued that the use of school facilities and students for advocacy could constitute an illegal campaign activity.
Idaho Attorney General’s Office was contacted, and the Idaho Professional Standards Commission opened an administrative proceeding. The commission determined probable cause and identified two violations of the Idaho Code of Ethics for Professional Educators: misuse of public funds and failure to uphold professional standards.
Reprimand agreement
On November 5, 2026, Bennett signed an agreement accepting a letter of reprimand that will be placed in his teaching certification file. The agreement still requires approval by the commission before becoming final. The reprimand does not call for suspension or revocation of his certificate.
Bennett said he acted in the best interests of his students, noting that district administrators had asked him to prepare presentations about the auditorium’s needs. He maintains that the video was intended only to inform voters about the facility’s shortcomings, not to tell them how to vote.
District response
Fremont Joint School District 215 Superintendent Dr. Brandon Farris said the district must follow Idaho Code § 74‑604, which prohibits public entities from using resources to advocate for or against ballot measures. “The laws are that we educate, not advocate,” Farris said. He declined to comment further, citing personnel‑matter confidentiality.
Implications for school officials
The case underscores the importance of clear guidance for educators on the permissible use of public resources during election cycles. While Bennett’s video was removed after the complaints, the incident highlights the fine line between providing factual information about school needs and engaging in prohibited campaign activity.
School districts across Idaho are reminded to review their policies and ensure staff receive training on election‑law compliance to avoid similar disputes.
Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.
