October 6, 2006
Contact: Tamara Baysinger (208) 332-1583

COMMISSION DENIES I-DEA TRANSFER

BOISE – At its October 5 meeting, The Idaho Public Charter School Commission denied a request from the Idaho Distance Education Academy to transfer its authorizing authority from the Whitepine School District to the Commission. The Commissioners expressed that there are too many questions surrounding the nature of I-DEA, which has been in operation since 2004 and enrolls students throughout Idaho, to be comfortable approving a transfer at this time.

In a decision typical of the authorization process, the Commission delayed for 60 days a decision on the Xavier Charter School petition, allowing time for the petitioners to further develop the petition. If approved, the Twin Falls area school will provide a classical-style education and core knowledge focus for students in grades K-8.

The Commission also heard updates from several charter schools it authorizes and ordered the issuance of a notice of defect to Falcon Ridge Public Charter School of Kuna in response to ongoing financial difficulties at the school.

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