Press Release
For Immediate Release - Wednesday, January 18th, 2017
BOISE - Idahoans expect their legislators to go to Boise to work for them, to represent them, and to focus on the problems facing our state. While the Majority party is distracted with their own internal quarreling, Democratic legislators have been working hard on valuable policies that will help create opportunities for Idahoans.
Representatives Paulette Jordan (D-Plummer) and Rep. Sally Toone (D-Gooding), along with the Democratic caucus, are presenting a bill to encourage qualified teachers to work in rural school districts through a student loan forgiveness program.
“Education continues to be the top concern amongst Idahoans. Strong communities start with quality schools,” said Rep. Jordan. “We can prepare young Idahoans for the jobs of the future by investing in our teachers and our rural public schools.”
“Many school districts in Legislative District 26 struggle to find qualified teachers to fill their ranks,” said Rep. Toone. “We need to mentor and invest in educators who are committed to staying and building our communities.”
The program offers teachers an incentive to work in eligible rural schools impacted by a shortage of quality teachers. Teachers at these schools will be eligible for up to $12,000 in student loan forgiveness over four years of service.
“Quality teachers directly impact student achievement levels and this investment will improve Idaho’s rural schools. I’m proud to support Rep. Jordan and Rep. Toone with this critical issue and our caucus is united in our support for rural communities,” said Rep. Erpelding. “This is an essential step to growing our rural economies in Idaho.”
Facts on Idaho’s Rural Schools:
- Idaho ranks 49th out of 50 for rural student spending.
- 1 out of 5 Idaho rural students do not graduate high school. Rural student graduation rate is 80%. Statewide graduation rate is 84%.
- Only about half of Idaho rural students go on to college. College enrollment rate is 51% for rural students. Statewide college enrollment rate is 59%.
- In 2012-2013, only 5% of Idaho rural students enrolled in dual high school/college credit classes.
- In 2014, only 20% of Idaho rural students were enrolled in advanced placement courses.
For more information, contact:
Shelley Landry
House Minority Chief of Staff
(208) 332-1132
slandry@house.idaho.gov
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