Lewiston School District tackles $5M special education funding gap

In a recent Senate Education Meeting held on February 17, 2025, in Idaho, the discussion centered around critical funding challenges and educational achievements within the state, particularly focusing on special education and literacy programs.

Superintendent Hansen opened the meeting with a stark revelation: Idaho faces an $80 million funding gap in special education, with the Lewiston School District alone accounting for $5 million of that deficit. This gap highlights the struggle to provide necessary services to students with disabilities, as the state currently allocates approximately $4,000 per student for special education. Hansen emphasized the urgency of addressing this funding shortfall to meet the needs of vulnerable children and their families.

Transitioning to a more positive note, Hansen shared impressive results from the K-3 literacy program in Lewiston. Last year, 79% of students were reading at grade level, placing the district second among large school districts in the state. The district employs a program called Enhanced Core Reading Instruction, developed by experts at the University of Oregon, which has proven effective in improving literacy outcomes. Hansen noted that the success of this program is not solely due to the curriculum but also the systematic approach that involves tailored instruction for students at various learning tiers.

The involvement of parents in the educational process was another key topic. Hansen described how the district actively engages families, encouraging them to participate in their children's learning journey. Students track their progress through data folders, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. This partnership between schools and families has been instrumental in achieving high literacy rates, as evidenced by a heartwarming anecdote of a young student proudly sharing his progress with his grandmother.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the district's recognition for its Professional Learning Communities (PLC) award, which underscores the collaborative efforts of educators to enhance student learning outcomes. Hansen explained that this award is a testament to the district's commitment to academic growth and effective teaching practices.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored the dual challenges of funding and educational achievement in Idaho. While the funding gap in special education remains a pressing concern, the strides made in literacy and community engagement offer a glimmer of hope for the future of education in the state. The Senate's ongoing dialogue will be crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.