ID H0711

Creates an alternative authorization program allowing individuals without traditional administrator certificates to become school principals or superintendents through a 3-year interim certificate, with two pathways: "grow your own" for experienced Idaho educators and "executive leadership" for professionals transitioning from business, military, government, or nonprofit sectors.

Requires applicants to hold at minimum a bachelor's degree, pass a criminal history check, complete at least 3 semester credits in teacher evaluation frameworks, and have at least 5 years of relevant experience (either teaching in Idaho public schools or leadership roles in other sectors).

Mandates a competency assessment before certification, with deficiencies addressed through at least 6 semester credits of targeted coursework in areas such as school law, finance, special education, and instructional leadership.

Requires 70 clock hours of mentoring during the first two years from a certified administrator with at least 5 years of experience, covering budgeting, student achievement analysis, employee evaluation, strategic planning, and other administrative competencies.

Amends Section 33-320 to authorize school districts to use funds from the public schools educational support program (up to $6,600 per district) to support administrator mentoring programs, including those under the new alternative authorization pathway.