Rural and underserved education incentive application window closes soon

BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Educators working in rural or underserved schools in Idaho have until Sept. 30 to apply for the Idaho State Board of Education’s Rural and Underserved Educator Incentive program.

The program provides state funding to pay student loan debt or reimbursement for eligible educational costs such as additional degree, advanced degrees, career technical certifications or other educational expenses.

Over 1,000 educators have applied for the program since it was created by the Idaho Legislature in 2022. The purpose for the program is to incentivize new educators to accept teaching positions in rural and underserved schools and stay there.

Applicants can receive up to $12,000 in loan repayment assistance or for eligible education expenses over four years if they remain employed at the same school or same school district throughout the four year period.

The payment breakdown is as follows:

First year - $1,500

Second year - $2,500

Third year - $3,500

Fourth year - $4,500

Total: $12,000

The application window for the third year cohort opened on April 1. There is funding available for 250 awarded applicants this year. Applications must be received before midnight Mountain Time on Sept. 30.

More information about the Rural and Underserved Educator Incentive program along with a link to the application window is posted on the State Board of Education website.