Nominee Lisa Paulus emphasizes management experience, communication if appointed to Idaho Public Charter School Commission

Lisa Paulus, a Jerome resident nominated to the Idaho Public Charter School Commission, told the Senate Education Committee she brings private-sector management experience and long service with youth nonprofit organizations to the commission.

Paulus introduced herself and said she was "happy to be here today," and described her background in television management and long involvement with the Magic Valley Boys and Girls Club. She told the committee, "I'm a good decision maker and I'm a good manager."

Committee members asked about priorities if she serves on the commission. Paulus said she favors improved communication between charter schools and traditional public schools and emphasized individualized attention for students: "I sincerely believe each child ... learns a different way, and each person has different interests. And we really have to look at that when we're looking at children and do what we can for them as individuals." She also said she supports maintaining recent statutory changes designed to streamline processes for charter schools and would look for improvements as she gains more experience.

The committee’s introductory remarks said the appointment term would commence Oct. 10, 2024, and expire May 12, 2028. The committee took Paulus's remarks under consideration and did not vote on the nomination at this meeting; the chairman said the committee will likely hold a vote at its next meeting.

Paulus told the committee she has served on the Magic Valley Boys and Girls Club board for 17 years and on its executive board for about 15 years, and she described after-school programming and other supports for students with additional needs. Several senators encouraged communication and collaboration between charter and traditional public schools as priorities for the commission.