Idaho is one of five U.S. states without state-funded preschool and instead emphasizes local and private solutions, despite increased spending by other states.

According to the latest State of Preschool report from the National Institute for Early Education Research, Idaho, Montana, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wyoming do not fund public preschool programs.

Nicole Criner, executive director of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children, said it does not mean the state is doing nothing for early childhood education.

"Idaho really has taken a parent choice approach for early learning opportunities," Criner explained. "What I mean by that is we really value the opportunity for parents to provide those for early years, that foundation for early learning."

Universal public preschool remains a complex topic in Idaho, with polls showing public support for expanding early learning options. Idaho's legislature, however, has shied away from debating it. This year, a budget committee turned down $16 million in federal grants intended to expand childcare availability, citing concerns about fraud in other states. A recent audit showed few instances of fraud among nearly 800 providers in Idaho.

Criner added Idaho has chosen locally led solutions for pre-K education, which include her group's Early Learning Collaboratives. She noted there are 24 of them across the state, bringing together community and school leaders, parents, teachers and local businesses.

Criner understands affordable childcare is a big issue for families and some collaboratives provide childcare spots. She stressed she and her colleagues will keep advocating for more high-quality, accessible childcare.

"What I'd really love to see is the continued recognition of the role early learning plays in family stability and workforce participation in Idaho," Criner added.

The State of Preschool report indicated a record-breaking 1.8 million children enrolled in state-funded preschool nationally during the 2024-2025 school year, with states spending $14.4 billion.

Source: Public News Service