Idaho Digital Learning Academy reports 52000 enrollments as funding formula shifts

In a pivotal meeting of the Joint Finance-Appropriation Committee on March 4, 2025, the Idaho Digital Learning Academy (IDLA) took center stage as it officially transitioned into its own division, separate from the former children's programs division in public schools. This marks a significant milestone for the academy, which provides online educational opportunities to students across Idaho, particularly benefiting those in rural areas where certain subjects, like physics, may not be available.

Superintendent Jeff Simmons presented the latest enrollment figures, revealing that IDLA's current student count has surpassed initial estimates, reaching over 52,000, compared to the budgeted 49,680. This surge in enrollment is crucial as the academy's funding is now directly tied to the number of students enrolled, with a rate of $430 per eligible enrollment. This change, enacted through House Bill 452, allows for a more responsive funding model that reflects actual student participation.

The financial implications of this shift were a key focus during the meeting. The committee reviewed IDLA's budget history, noting a steady increase in both appropriations and expenditures over the past five years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many students turned to online learning. The academy's fiscal year 2024 ended with a cash balance of $8.5 million, up from $5 million at the start of the year, indicating a healthy financial position despite the challenges of fluctuating enrollment numbers.

Looking ahead, the budget for fiscal year 2025 anticipates a similar expenditure level to the previous year, with a request for $25.8 million based on projected enrollments. However, concerns were raised regarding a potential withdrawal of $1.4 million if enrollments do not meet expectations. Superintendent Simmons clarified that the estimates for next year's budget were made before final enrollment numbers were available, leading to cautious projections to avoid financial shortfalls.

As the committee concluded its discussions, the future of IDLA appears promising, with plans for continued growth and adaptation to the educational needs of Idaho's students. The meeting underscored the importance of flexible funding models in supporting innovative educational solutions, especially in a state where access to traditional classroom resources can be limited.