Friends and Partners,
As we close another year, I want to thank you for the collaboration, trust, and dedication that make the work and success of the Idaho State Board of Education possible.
This past year brought meaningful momentum for the Board. During the 2025 legislative session, David Turnbull was confirmed by the Idaho State Senate. In May, Kurt Liebich took over as Board President, replacing Dr. Linda Clark. In October 2025, Governor Brad Little appointed Pete Kohler to succeed Dr. Clark after her many years of distinguished service to the Board. Both Koehler and I look forward to confirmation by the Senate this session.
In partnership with the Idaho Legislature, our education institutions, and stakeholders statewide, the Board focused on implementing legislation from the 2025 session to strengthen our education system while keeping students, workforce readiness, and long-term opportunity at the center of our work.
This included implementation of Senate Bill 1198 (2025) addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Board staff worked closely with colleges and universities to ensure compliance with the law, reinforce merit-based decision-making, and align institutional practices with statutory and Board requirements—reflecting our commitment to transparency and public trust.
Another significant achievement was the completion of Idaho’s first Undergraduate Medical Education Train Here, Stay Here, Grow Here Plan, developed through the Undergraduate Medical Education Working Group and submitted to the Governor and Legislature. The plan outlines a path to expand medical education and grow Idaho’s physician workforce by training students here at home.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Board will continue advancing thoughtful policy discussions around higher education investment, including the introduction of the Idaho First Outcomes Based Funding framework. This approach aligns public investment with student success, workforce readiness, and economic impact—prioritizing long-term outcomes, Idaho students and high-need, high-demand fields.
At the same time, the Board remains focused on the broader role education plays in preparing informed and engaged citizens. As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, our continued discussions around civics education are especially meaningful as we prepare students to understand history and to contribute to the next chapter of civic life and leadership.
I would also like to share several team updates:
- We welcomed Peter Risse as the new Administrator of the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education (IDCTE). The Board approved his appointment in October.
- In August, the Idaho Public Charter School Commission (IPCSC) appointed Rachel Burk as Executive Director.
- We are pleased to welcome Theresa Arnold as the Board’s new Deputy Chief Financial Officer. Teresa brings extensive financial experience and will be essential in supporting the agencies overseen by the Board and strengthening our financial operations.
- Matthew Reiber, our External Affairs and Strategy Officer, will be leaving the Board to accept a new role as Deputy Secretary of State under Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane. We are deeply grateful for Matthew’s service and leadership, and we wish him continued success in this next chapter.
- Marissa Morrison, currently our Communications Director, will take on the role of Director of External Affairs, expanding her responsibilities to include legislative affairs.
- Alison Henken, who has served the Board since 2012, stepped into the role of Policy Director this fall, leading policy research and implementation and serving as the Board’s educator preparation liaison.
I am incredibly proud of the Board’s work this year and grateful for the dedicated staff, partners, and educators who help move education forward in Idaho. Thank you for your continued collaboration and support. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
Warm regards and best wishes for a Happy New Year,
Jennifer White
Executive Director
Idaho State Board of Education
About Idaho State Board of Education
The mission of the Board is “To drive improvement of the K-20 education system for the citizens of Idaho, focusing on quality, results, and accountability.”
