ID S1288

Establishes the Idaho High-Needs Student Fund to reimburse school districts and public charter schools for special education costs exceeding $30,000 per student for services such as nursing, interpreting, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and specialized equipment.

Provides 100% reimbursement for eligible costs between $30,000 and $80,000, 80% reimbursement for costs above $80,000, with a maximum reimbursement cap of $100,000 per student.

Reserves 60% of fund balances for non-rural school districts and 40% for rural districts, with unused rural funds rolling over to non-rural agencies after July 1 each year.

Requires annual reporting to the governor, legislative education committees, and state board of education beginning January 2028 on fund balances, applicant numbers, and awarded amounts.

Takes effect July 1, 2026 under an emergency declaration.