Idaho Rural Schools Association

Championing Rural Education

Born out of a collective vision in 1990, the Idaho Rural Schools Association (IRSA) was conceived during a spirited discussion among several dedicated small school superintendents. Recognizing the pressing need for a stronger voice for rural schools at the state level, this group of forward-thinkers established IRSA to share information, resources, and services, helping rural schools and districts achieve their goals.

This groundbreaking initiative was the brainchild of Dick Peters of Cambridge and supported by over 50 small school superintendents. Their mission was clear: to safeguard the future of small schools by improving communication among rural districts, educational agencies, and policymakers. Together, they aimed to ensure that rural schools had the support and representation needed to thrive.

Idaho Rural Schools: A Driving Force for Change

Over the years, IRSA has grown into a respected voice among state leadership. Through testifying before committees and directly interacting with legislators, our association has been at the forefront of representing the interests of rural schools. By advocating for policies and resources that support rural education, IRSA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Idaho's educational landscape. Our efforts ensure that the unique challenges and needs of rural schools are heard and addressed, driving positive change and fostering improvement across the state's educational system.

Our Commitment

At the heart of IRSA lies an unwavering goal: to enhance the capacity of Idaho’s rural communities by focusing on rural districts and narrowing the fiscal disparity between these districts and their urban counterparts. We believe that every student, regardless of their geographic location, deserves access to high-quality education and the opportunities that come with it.

To achieve this, IRSA is dedicated to:

  1. Advocacy: We actively advocate for policies and funding that support rural schools, ensuring they receive the resources needed to provide a comprehensive education to their students.

  2. Resource Allocation: By working closely with state and local governments, we strive to allocate resources more equitably, ensuring rural districts have the financial support necessary to thrive.

  3. Community Engagement: We engage with community members, parents, and educators to understand their unique challenges and work together to find effective solutions. Our goal is to build a strong, supportive network that uplifts rural schools and communities.

  4. Professional Development: We provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities for educators in rural areas, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver exceptional education and foster student success.

  5. Innovative Programs: We develop and implement innovative programs tailored to the specific needs of rural schools.

  6. Partnerships: We forge partnerships with businesses, non-profits, and educational institutions to bring additional resources and opportunities to rural schools, creating a collaborative effort to support rural education.

We invite you to join us in championing the cause of rural education in Idaho. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of students, providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed, and ensuring a brighter future for all.

For more information or to support the IRSA contact: 


Heather P. Williams, Ph.D.
Director for the IRSA

500 W. Washington St.
Boise, ID 83792
208-345-1171