Rating: –1

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1069 revises Idaho Code §33-1807, expanding the state’s literacy intervention program for students in kindergarten through third grade. It mandates extended-time literacy programs for students scoring “basic” or “below basic” on fall reading assessments, requiring a minimum of 30 to 60 hours of supplemental instruction annually, depending on assessment performance. These programs must address core reading skills—such as phonemic awareness, fluency, and comprehension—and be aligned with the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Plan.

The bill also requires the use of State Board–approved adaptive learning technology, professional development for all K–3 teachers and elementary administrators on the “science of reading,” and annual reporting of program outcomes. The State Department of Education is directed to provide instructional coaching, maintain a literacy resource center, and evaluate the effectiveness of program providers. The bill includes a $5 million annual appropriation and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:

S1069 expands a costly program that has failed to deliver measurable results. From 2017 to 2024, Idaho spent over $257 million on literacy intervention, yet fourth grade reading proficiency rose by only 1.4%. Despite this poor return on investment, the bill adds even more state-mandated spending and training requirements, with no structural reforms or meaningful accountability measures for ineffective teachers or administrators. The Idaho Republican Party Platform prioritizes fiscal responsibility and opposes throwing more taxpayer money into failing systems without performance-based justification. Because this bill increases public education spending without delivering reforms or evidence of improved outcomes, S1069 earns a negative rating.