This proposed constitutional amendment would remove the language that gives the state the authority to enforce mandatory education attendance for children, ages 7 – 16 years.
Article IX Section 9 of the Idaho Constitution gives the state legislature the ability to regulate school attendance.
The Idaho Constitution also states: “The stability of a republican form of government depending mainly upon the intelligence of the people, it shall be the duty of the legislature of Idaho, to establish and maintain a general, uniform and thorough system of public, free common schools.” Does removing the attendance enforcement language align with this duty?
In Idaho, children can be educated in public schools, private schools, on-line or in a home school setting. Parental rights and choice are respected and exercised freely. There are no onerous reporting requirements or undue burdens placed on parents by the state.
The state has a vested interest in educating children. Passing this legislation might weaken the state's ability to ensure that all children receive a basic education, potentially leaving some children uneducated/under-educated.
This legislation may lead to disparities in access to education, particularly for children in vulnerable or disadvantaged situations. Potential risks for vulnerable children:
Children from families struggling with neglect, poverty, or lack of awareness might not receive an adequate education.
The state might face difficulties identifying and addressing cases where children are denied their right to education altogether.
Investing in education is investing in Idaho's future. Both company location decisions and family location decisions depend upon access to quality schools.
Currently, every state has compulsory age requirements for education. Idaho will be at a competitive disadvantage if it adopts this type of legislation. Companies locate where a skilled workforce is available; families locate where their children will have access to quality education.
This legislation is a strong signal to potential employers and their families that education does not matter to the State of Idaho. This is the primary reason to support education; it helps prepare the State for a better future by building the resources necessary for that future, our kids!