One month into the application window for Idaho’s Parental Choice Tax Credit, thousands of families are moving quickly to access new educational options.
The numbers
- 10,105: Total students using the new program
- 6,030: Applications submitted
What it means
Early demand is real, and it’s not abstract. The first-month application surge shows Idaho families are hungry for options that let them personalize learning for every kid, instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all experience. It also reinforces what the Idaho Supreme Court affirmed last week: Idaho can empower parents with more educational pathways so parents, not bureaucrats, are in the driver’s seat when it comes to their child’s education.
What we’re saying
“These early numbers confirm what we’ve been hearing from families across Idaho. Parents want the ability to make educational decisions that truly fit their children,” said Heidie Nesset, vice president of implementation at yes. every kid. foundation. “What we’re seeing now is families acting on that opportunity to support learning in ways that reflect their priorities and goals.”
What parents are saying
“We applied because every child learns differently,” says Jon Eisfelder, a father from Pathways Christian Academy. “This allows us to build the right learning environment for our son. Which is such a blessing.”
Program details
- Eligible parents can claim a tax credit for education-related expenses, including tuition, books, tutoring, curriculum, and certain transportation.
- Credits range from $5,000 per student to $7,500 for children with qualifying disabilities.
- Priority goes to households at or below 300% of the federal poverty level ($93,600 for a family of four).
- Program is capped at $50 million.
- Families can apply through March 15, 2026. Applications are processed in the order received and remain available while funding lasts. https://myschoolchoice.idaho.gov
Recent legal update
Earlier this month, the Idaho Supreme Court upheld the law establishing the Parental Choice Tax Credit, affirming Idaho’s authority to expand education options for families.
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