Idaho’s special education services are facing significant challenges, including a $100 million budget shortfall. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield is working to address the issue through a new state special education program and potential changes to the state’s school funding formula.

New State Program

Critchfield has secured $5 million for a new “high-needs” special education program to help schools pay for full-time staff or expensive equipment for students requiring more than $30,000 in support. However, this amount is likely to be insufficient, and the program’s long-term funding mechanism is still uncertain.

The new program will prioritize rural schools, with up to 40% of the funds earmarked for these areas. Critchfield aims to track the program’s effectiveness and identify areas where support is lacking.

Federal Changes

The White House has announced plans to move special education services from the Department of Education to the Department of Health and Human Services. This change has sparked debate, with some arguing it will improve support for individuals with disabilities and others claiming it will undermine progress made in special education.

Critchfield views the change as a practical matter, noting that many students receiving special education services also receive support through Medicaid. She believes that bringing these services under the same roof could streamline support and improve efficiency.

Despite these changes, Idaho’s special education spending crunch is unlikely to be resolved soon. The state’s special education bill is around $400 million annually, with the federal government providing approximately $71 million and Medicaid contributing $50-60 million. The remaining amount must be covered by the state and local schools, leaving a significant shortfall.

Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.