Figures from the 2009-10 puts Idaho only ahead of Utah in per-pupil spending, according to the U.S. Census Bureau in a story in the Idaho Statesman.

However, education department spokeswoman Melissa McGrath said "Funding is a factor in education, but it's not the most important factor,'" adding that Idaho students continually outperform other students in national tests.

For examples, she cited 2011 national education figures showing Idaho eighth-grade students scored  above average in reading, math and science.