BOISE, Idaho — During a special meeting Wednesday, the Idaho State Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. David W. Hahn as the eighth president of Boise State University and approved a temporary rule establishing a framework for eligible educational expenses for Idaho virtual schools. 

Hahn's appointment follows a national presidential search and the completion of the 10-business-day period required under Idaho law after he was named the sole finalist on June 16. Hahn’s appointment is effective July 1. He will perform his duties as he prepares to move to Idaho and will begin serving on campus no later than Aug. 10, in accordance with the terms of his contract. 

"This vote reflects the confidence of the full Board in the process we undertook and in the leader we have selected," President of the Idaho State Board of Education Kurt Liebich said. "Today's vote is the culmination of a rigorous process, and I have every confidence that Boise State and the state of Idaho are well served by this appointment. Dr. Hahn is the right person to lead Boise State into its next chapter." 

The Board also approved a temporary rule implementing House Bill 624 (2026), which directs the Idaho State Board of Education to establish rules governing the use of supplemental learning funds in virtual schools. 

Board staff hosted meetings with and solicited feedback from virtual school leaders and other stakeholders in the development of the temporary rule. The rule defines eligible expense categories, including instructional materials, technology, and course-related supports, establishes standards to help ensure expenditures support student learning and align with Idaho content standards, and outlines oversight and accountability measures, including direct payment to vendors and audit authority. 

“This temporary rule reflects a thoughtful compromise,” Idaho State Board of Education Executive Director Jennifer White said. “With the new school year approaching, the Board needed to provide timely guidance while ensuring the rule was informed by those who will implement it. The result provides schools with the clarity and flexibility they need while maintaining strong accountability for public funds. We look forward to continuing that work through the permanent rulemaking process.” 

The temporary rule will take effect Aug. 5, 2026, providing virtual schools with guidance for distributing supplemental learning funds during the 2026-27 school year. The Board will consider the pending rule for adoption at its November meeting.