Early enrollment shows promise for Idaho’s Parental Choice Tax Credit

The early response to Idaho’s new Parental Choice Tax Credit program is sending a clear message: many families want more say when it comes to their children’s education. 

In just the first month, according to the "yes. every kid. foundation," 10,105 students have enrolled and 6,030 applications have been submitted, a surge that demonstrates strong interest in alternatives to traditional schooling. 

For supporters of school choice, these numbers confirm what they’ve long argued. As Heidie Nesset of the yes. every kid. foundation put it, parents “want the ability to make educational decisions that truly fit their children,” and they’re now acting on that opportunity.  

The Idaho Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the law adds another layer of affirmation: the state is within its authority to expand educational pathways for families seeking something different. 

But it’s also fair to acknowledge the concerns of those who worry the tax credit could siphon resources away from public schools. Public education is a foundational institution, and any policy that shifts funding deserves close attention. These concerns aren’t unreasonable, and they merit ongoing public discussion.

“I think most school leaders in the state of Idaho are certainly not opposed to school choice and opportunities for parents to do different things,” Coeur d'Alene School District Superintendent Shon Hocker previously told The Press.

Although he is not opposed to school choice, he said, he is opposed to taxpayer dollars paying for that choice.

Post Falls School District Superintendent Dena Naccarato also previously told The Press that Idaho has a constitutional obligation to fund public schools.

"The idea of providing tax relief to those who do not send their children to public schools further burdens an already underfunded system," she said.

At the same time, if parents are genuinely willing to take on the significant responsibility of homeschooling or choosing a nontraditional educational route, it seems reasonable that they be able to access some financial support. 

The tax credit is not a blank check; it’s capped at $50 million, prioritized for families below 300% of the federal poverty level, and limited to expenses directly tied to education, such as tuition, curriculum, tutoring and materials. Credits range from $5,000 per student to $7,500 for children with qualifying disabilities.

For families who want something different for their kids but don't have the money to make it happen, this program offers a chance to bridge that gap.

The motivation from parents is real and personal. As one father, Jon Eisfelder, explained, they applied “because every child learns differently,” and the program allows them to “build the right learning environment” for their son. Many families across the state share that thought.

Homeschooling, in particular, requires dedication, time and, often, financial sacrifice. Parents who choose that path are stepping into a demanding role while managing the rest of life’s obligations. Offering them some level of support doesn’t undermine public schools; rather, it recognizes the legitimacy of diverse learning environments and the families committed to making them work.

As applications continue through March 15, Idaho has an opportunity to monitor, measure and refine this program based on real outcomes. The strong early enrollment suggests families see value in having choices. The challenge ahead will be ensuring those choices strengthen education.