Support S1038

Dear Member of the Idaho Legislature,

An education freedom revolution has ignited. Across the country, states are taking decisive action to expand school choice options for parents and students. Just last month, Iowa and Utah passed universal education savings account (ESA) programs to allow families to completely customize their children’s education. They follow in the footsteps of West Virginia and Arizona, which distinguished itself as the first state to enact such a program, one that is widely regarded as the “gold standard” of school choice.

It’s no secret that a one-size-fits-all education system doesn’t work for every student. Idaho’s constitution affirms the importance of education in maintaining the “stability of a republic form of government.” That’s why all kids deserve the ability to pursue the education that works best for them.

Recently the Idaho Senate Education Committee introduced Senate Bill 1038, the Freedom In Education Saving Account (FIE) Act, which would create a universal education savings account (ESA) program in Idaho. It is modeled in part after the successful Arizona ESA program, which was adopted more than a decade ago and expanded to all K-12 students last year. If passed, the legislation would allow a portion of state funds to follow students to the education environment that aligns with their family’s values and is best suited to their needs.

Passing Senate Bill 1038 to establish a universal ESA program is the right thing to do. Not only will it empower students, but it will also spur educational innovation. Many micro schools and other innovative private school alternatives are ready to bloom across the state when we start funding students instead of the system. We will marvel at the innovation coming from unfettered competition in the K-12 education arena.

Idaho should not fall behind other states. Unfortunately, without your support, it will. That is why we, the undersigned organizations and individuals, are asking you to empower students and families by voting for S1038. Our parents deserve to be trusted, and your YES vote on S1038 will tell the parents in your district that you stand behind them! Sincerely,