BOISE, ID – The Idaho Department of Education distributed more than $91 million in additional school facilities funding to districts across the state this week. The payments stem from proceeds related to the School Modernization Facilities bonds issued following the passage of House Bill 521 by the 2024 Idaho Legislature.
Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 521 into law on March 29, 2024, to increase state investment in public school facilities over the next decade. Initial payments were sent to school districts seven months after the bill’s passage, with $1 billion distributed by the end of February 2025. The Idaho Department of Education coordinated with the Idaho State Building Authority and local schools to facilitate the funding delivery.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield highlighted the collaborative effort between the Department of Education, Idaho Building Authority, and financial partners in implementing the law and delivering funds within 11 months. Idaho’s bond rating and favorable market conditions contributed to proceeds exceeding the original $1 billion target.
Chief Financial Officer Gideon Tolman and Deputy Superintendent Spencer Barzee worked with Idaho Building Authority Executive Director Wayne Meuleman to secure bond ratings, implement a statewide facilities assessment tool, engage financial partners, and establish training and reporting requirements for districts.
Governor Little emphasized that the funding supports improvements to public school facilities while contributing to long-term property tax relief. He noted that the state’s strong credit rating helped increase available funds.
The Department of Education distributed the additional $91.6 million to school districts on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, using the same allocation formula as previous distributions.
Speaker of the House Mike Moyle added that House Bill 521 not only provided funding for schools but also delivered income and property tax relief, calling the legislation “the gift that keeps on giving.”
For more information, visit sde.idaho.gov.