ID S1171

Appropriates $39,213,300 to the Superintendent of Public Instruction for fiscal year 2016 (July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016) from multiple funds including the General Fund ($15,745,900), Federal Grant Fund ($17,071,500), and others for personnel costs, operating expenditures, capital outlay, and trustee and benefit payments.

Authorizes the Superintendent of Public Instruction a maximum of 142 full-time equivalent positions during the fiscal year 2016 period, unless additional positions are specifically authorized by the Governor.

Allocates up to $6,300,000 from the General Fund for schools to purchase broadband services equivalent to the level procured as of March 26, 2015, to protect educational continuity while the state develops a longer-term funding solution.

Requires school districts to procure broadband services and related equipment in accordance with Idaho Code procurement laws, with documentation support required; the Superintendent must conduct cost/benefit analyses for service expansions and equipment purchases.

Mandates the Superintendent report to the Legislature and Governor on broadband service levels purchased and the number of students using Internet, online courses, online digital curriculum, and other digital tools.