Idaho Commission Approved Two New Charter Schools
Families in Meridian and Pocatello will see new school options opening in the coming years.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Idaho Public Charter School Commission has unanimously approved applications for two new charter schools. These additions to the state education system include a high school expansion in Meridian and a new career-focused campus in Pocatello.
Why it matters
The approvals allow for curriculum expansion and new career-training opportunities for local families. These schools were cleared to move forward provided they meet strict financial and operational requirements set by the commission.
Doral Academy of Idaho, which saw 27% enrollment growth last year, will expand to a 840-student high school. Pocatello will gain its fourth charter school through the seventh branch of the Elevate Academy network.
The players
Idaho Public Charter School Commission
The state authority responsible for authorizing and overseeing the performance and financial health of public charter schools.
Doral Academy of Idaho
An established operator of K-8 schools in Meridian known for its arts-integration curriculum.
Elevate Academy
A growing network of charter schools across the state that focuses on career and technical education for students.
The details
To move forward, school leaders must submit verified balanced operating budgets and formal building lease or purchase agreements to the state. They are also required to provide comprehensive documentation of all grants, loans, and operational contracts. These requirements ensure the schools are sustainable before they begin construction or open their doors to students.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: Charter school applications were approved by the commission.
Fall 2027: Doral Academy Preparatory plans to welcome its first ninth-graders.
2028: Elevate Academy Pocatello is scheduled to open its doors.
The Home Front
The approval of these schools reflects the ongoing expansion of the state charter network to meet shifting local enrollment needs. This development follows the commission's established trend of requiring rigorous financial documentation before approving new campus construction.
Parents considering these new options should look for official announcements from the school networks regarding future enrollment windows and information sessions. It is also wise to track local school board updates to stay informed on how these new campuses might influence regional school district planning.
The takeaway
These schools provide new pathways for arts-integrated high school education and career-focused training. Families can monitor the progress of these projects as the schools work toward their projected opening dates in 2027 and 2028.
Further reading
For more information on the state's school landscape, visit Secondary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Idaho Education News.
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