BOISE, ID — Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield is praising the work of students, teachers, families and school staff across the state as the 2025-26 school year comes to a close.

In a Friday statement, Critchfield said recent visits to schools across Idaho reminded her that student success is driven by people and community support more than policies or programs.

Critchfield said she witnessed students making academic gains in reading and math, along with graduating seniors earning college credits, job skills and career training opportunities before finishing high school. She also highlighted the efforts of teachers, principals, bus drivers, paraprofessionals and families supporting students throughout the school year.

The superintendent pointed to continued emphasis on reading fundamentals, math instruction, career and technical education programs and dual credit opportunities as areas contributing to student progress statewide.

Critchfield also said she has seen growing confidence among students, educators and communities, though she acknowledged challenges remain in continuing to improve student outcomes and supporting schools.

“As graduations take place across Idaho, I’ll be thinking about each student walking across that stage, and all the people who helped them get there,” Critchfield said in the release. “That moment represents years of effort, encouragement, and belief.”