SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille School District trustees heard the first reading of House Bill 623, a new Idaho education law requiring public schools to establish policies that provide a daily moment of silence for students, during a July 14 meeting.

While trustees did not vote on the law, they discussed its implementation. 

The bill was signed into law by Idaho Gov. Brad Little on March 19 during the 2026 legislative session and took effect July 1. 

Beginning this upcoming school year, public school classrooms are required to provide students with at least 60 seconds of silence at or near the beginning of each school day. 

Students may use the time as they choose, and can reflect, meditate, pray or engage in any other silent activity, as long as it does not interfere with other students' moment of silence.

Public schools are prohibited from providing instruction concerning the nature of the moment of silence, other than what is stated in the law.

Superintendent Becky Meyer said the district is responsible for establishing a policy for students and teachers who fail to comply with the law requirements.

"I do imagine that there will be some questions and some fallout that comes from this policy, but it is reflected in the new law," said board chair Lonnie Williams.