Bill description: HB 589 would expand Idaho’s mastery-based education programs by allowing any school district to participate and establishing a commission to make policy recommendations.
Rating: 0
Does it increase government spending (for objectionable purposes) or debt? Conversely, does it decrease government spending or debt?
The Fiscal Note for HB 589 states that the increased number of school districts that would participate in the mastery-based education programs would warrant an additional $1.4 million in state funding for mastery-based education.
(-1)
However, expanding the mastery-based education program to additional school districts would promote school efficiency and long-term cost savings. Mastery-based education, also known as competency-based education, allows for a more personalized educational approach where students’ show competency in a subject in order to progress. For example, if a student comes into a school with a complete understanding of a subject, that student can test out of the subject, rather than spend time covering a subject they already know. Expanding competency-based education across the state should allow school districts to save money in their general education courses and in other courses where students have shown their competency.
(+1)
Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?
HB 589 would establish a new Mastery-Based Education Advisory Commission, which would consist of up to 12 members. The commission would be responsible for making policy recommendations to the state Board of Education for the implementation of a mastery-based approach to education.
(-1)
Does it increase government redistribution of wealth? Examples include the use of tax policy or other incentives to reward specific interest groups, businesses, politicians, or government employees with special favors or perks; transfer payments; and hiring additional government employees. Conversely, does it decrease government redistribution of wealth?
HB 589 would allow more school districts to participate in the mastery-based education program, and would give them access to the program’s resources and funds. Currently, the program is capped at just 20 schools, yet, the Fiscal Note estimates that there are an additional 30 schools that wish to join.
(+1)
