BOISE, ID — Idaho’s K–12 public schools budget cleared a key step Friday, with lawmakers advancing a proposal that maintains current funding levels despite a tighter state revenue outlook.

The budget, one of the state’s largest investments, funds public education statewide. Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield said keeping funding steady in a constrained fiscal year represents a positive outcome for schools and students.

However, Critchfield raised concerns about how virtual education programs were treated in the proposal. She pointed to a significant disparity in funding reductions, noting that the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance faces a 52% cut, while other virtual programs were reduced by about 1.8%.

Critchfield said the difference raises questions about fairness and consistency, particularly for a state-created program serving students across Idaho. She also emphasized the need for broader discussions on how virtual education is funded moving forward.

The budget still faces additional steps in the legislative process before final approval.