Committee introduces RS 32428 to create apprenticeship pathway for superintendents; sponsor seeks immediate effect

Representative Dale Hawkins introduced RS 32428, a proposal to establish an apprenticeship-style pathway for school superintendents and principals. The committee approved a substitute motion to introduce the RS with language to make it effective immediately upon passage.

Hawkins said the measure aims to “grow Idaho people into these positions,” noting the state currently faces vacancies — he and others referenced roughly 13 open superintendent positions — and that rural districts have difficulty attracting candidates. He said the pathway would allow on-the-job training similar to existing apprenticeship models for teachers and that the timeline to complete the program was expected to be about three to four years.

“I know that it requires, you know, their bachelor's to come from somewhere in Idaho. This whole idea is to grow Idaho people into these positions,” Hawkins said.

Members sought technical clarifications. Representative Church, who is a licensed administrator, cautioned that the administrative role requires substantial internship hours and distinct skills and asked how the RS would address those requirements. Representative Mathias noted there is already a registered apprenticeship program for principals and asked how this RS would be different; Hawkins replied the RS’s main focus is superintendents.

Representative Harris made the substitute motion to introduce with an amendment striking a July 1 effective date and replacing it with immediate effect after passage; the committee agreed that Legislative Services Office (LSO) could adjust the exact phrasing to preserve intent. Several members said they would press for details at a full hearing about required hours, sponsor responsibilities, program oversight and whether the State Board of Education and the Idaho Association of School Administrators supported the approach.

Concerns raised included whether the RS would open certification to applicants lacking system knowledge, how private-sector management experience would be evaluated, and how sponsors (local education agencies) would be held to standards. Representative Nelson said the job combines fiscal management, personnel supervision and system knowledge; he asked the sponsor to ensure the program protects those competencies.

The committee recorded the substitute motion and introduced the RS; no final policy decisions were made. Members asked the sponsor and agencies to return with detailed program design and consultations with the State Board and relevant associations before a hearing.