Committee introduces RS 32396 to raise fractional funding for small rural high‑school STEM teachers

A legislative committee voted Monday to introduce RS 32396, a proposal that would change Code 33‑10‑21 to increase fractional funding for small rural high schools so districts can hire or support additional math and science instructors.

The bill’s sponsor, Representative Rod Furness, told the committee RS 32396 “provides additional funds for small schools, rural schools” and would increase fractional allocations so schools with 100–159 students receive “at least 1/2 of an instructor” and schools with 160–319 students receive 3/4 of an instructor. Furness said the change does not alter funding for larger schools and is intended to address shortages of certified math and science teachers in isolated districts.

Committee members pressed Furness and others for more detail on how the money is distributed and whether it would guarantee higher teacher salaries. Quinn Perry, deputy director of the Idaho School Boards Association, said, “I don't know that it would guarantee there'd be additional salary. I mean, currently the schools that we're talking about get about $5,000 for this support.” Perry added the funds can be used for salary or for targeted instructional support such as instructional coaches.

Several representatives argued the committee needs more context before advancing policy. Representative Harris questioned whether reallocating existing funds from wealthier, urban districts might be an alternative to adding new money. Representative Church asked how the change would affect teacher retention in remote districts. Representative Ehart asked Furness to return with information on what other programs are already in place and how they have performed. Representative Nelson asked for clearer rationale and for presentation material showing how small districts use staff across multiple subjects.

A motion by Representative Garner to introduce RS 32396 passed on a voice vote. Chairman Pickett said, “Motion carries, will be introduced.”

The measure was brought to the committee as a response to what members described as recurring staffing gaps in rural Idaho schools. Furness cited a recent exchange with a local superintendent who reported multiple openings in a district’s math department and limited availability of traditionally certified applicants. Committee members asked staff and the sponsor to return with (1) current program dollar amounts and allocation mechanics, (2) data on how the proposed factors would affect specific small districts, and (3) information on whether funds can or should be directed to salaries versus other supports.

The committee also approved the minutes from its Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 meetings by voice vote earlier in the session.

Next steps: the committee approved printing/introducing RS 32396 for further consideration; members requested follow-up materials to inform any subsequent hearings or amendments.