By Branden Durst
The debate over educational competition in Idaho has reached a fever pitch, driven primarily by the passage of the Parental Choice Tax Credit (HB 93). On one side, we have parents demanding more control over their children’s education. On the other, we have groups like Save Our Schools Idaho (SOS Idaho), which argues that any public funding directed outside of traditional schools will dismantle our public system.
This conversation should not be reduced to soundbites and fear-mongering. It deserves a rigorous, public examination of the facts, figures, and fundamental philosophies that underpin Idaho education.
To that end, I am formally challenging Save Our Schools Idaho to a public, moderated debate in the heart of the Treasure Valley this fall.
As the co-author of Idaho’s pioneering school choice program, Advanced Opportunities, and the founder of a public charter school, I know the landscape of educational competition well. I will take the affirmative side, arguing that expanding educational competition and empowering parents are essential steps toward improving outcomes for all Idaho students.
I recognize SOS Idaho’s primary concerns: that new choice programs lack the accountability required of public schools and that they siphon resources from traditional districts, particularly in rural areas. They have been vocal in arguing that these measures will balloon in cost, threatening the financial health of our public education system.
This is exactly the ground on which we must meet. I believe that educational competition, properly structured, strengthens the entire system. Idaho already has successful choice models—like the Advanced Opportunities program—that maintain public accountability while delivering exceptional value to taxpayers.
We need to demonstrate to the people of the Treasure Valley and beyond what it looks like to engage in civil discourse, even on the most passionate issues. We need to move past petitions and rhetoric and engage in a true exchange of ideas.
To ensure fairness, I offer SOS Idaho complete control over the logistics. They may select any qualified individual to argue their opposing position, and they may choose the neutral moderator who will manage the proceedings and ensure respect and time limits are upheld.
My goal is simple: to stop shouting past each other and start engaging with each other for the benefit of Idaho’s children. Let’s show our community that we can advocate passionately for different visions of education while adhering to the highest standards of civic engagement. I await your reply, Save Our Schools Idaho. The clock is ticking on a better, more accountable education system for our state.
About Branden Durst
Branden Durst, MPA, EdS, is the chairman of Brabeion Academy. He is a former Idaho state representative and Idaho state senator and co-creator of the highly successful Advanced Opportunities program.
