ID S1226

Establishes a "self-directed learner" designation for Idaho public school students who demonstrate content mastery, teacher approval, and meet grade-specific criteria including math facts proficiency (grade 5) or documented postsecondary planning (grade 8).

Authorizes school districts and public charter schools to adopt policies governing self-directed learner processes, including student applications, teacher designations, monitoring, support, and rescission procedures.

Grants self-directed learners the right to flexible learning options including flexible attendance, virtual school, extended learning opportunities, and other agreed-upon arrangements approved by student, teachers, and parents/guardians.

Requires students to maintain agreed-upon criteria to retain the designation and allows teachers to rescind status if students fail to meet criteria within an agreed timeframe.

Funds self-directed learners as 1.0 FTE with full public school funding regardless of actual attendance or instruction hours, and mandates annual reporting of self-directed learner numbers to the state department of education.

Effective date: July 1, 2022.