Most State Board of Education strategic goals and objectives assume on-going and sometimes significant additional levels of State legislative appropriations. Availability of state revenues (for appropriation), gubernatorial, and legislative support for some Board initiatives can be uncertain.
Beyond funding considerations, many education policies are embedded in state statute or rule and not under Board control. Changes to statute and rule desired by the Board of Education are accomplished according to state guidelines. Rules require public notice and opportunity for comment, gubernatorial support, and adoption by the Legislature. Proposed legislation must be supported by the Governor, gain approval in the germane legislative committees and pass both houses of the Legislature.
The Board of Education establishes rules and standards for all Idaho public K-12 education, but Idaho provides for "local control of school districts." Elected school boards have wide discretion in hiring teachers and staff, school construction and maintenance, and the daily operations of the public schools.
A great deal of educational funding for Idaho public schools is provided by the federal government. Funding is often tied to specific federal programs and objectives, and therefore can greatly influence education policy in the State.