POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — As the 2026 legislative session enters its final stretch, the race for Idaho’s top education post took center stage in Pocatello on Wednesday. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield met with parents and educators at the Magnolia Mansion to outline a second-term vision focused on “the basics,” even as school districts brace for a tightening financial belt.
The visit comes at pivital time for Idaho Education, as school districts across eastern Idaho grapple with significant budget gaps.
Read the full article from Local News 8
Debbie Critchfield is Idaho’s dedicated Superintendent of Public Instruction, serving since January 2023 and now running for re-election to continue her work preparing students, supporting teachers, and strengthening communities.
A proud member of a fourth-generation Idaho farm family, Debbie and her husband, Dave, live in Oakley in Cassia County, where they raised their four children and now enjoy time with their grandchildren. The daughter of a military family, Debbie earned her bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and fell in love with Idaho after marrying into the Critchfield family.
Debbie’s passion for education began close to home. She started as a substitute teacher, then served as a GED instructor at the College of Southern Idaho and as public information officer for the Cassia County School District for nine years. Elected to the Cassia County School Board, she served for ten years—including five as chair—and held leadership roles with the Idaho School Boards Association.
Her commitment led to an appointment on the Idaho State Board of Education, where she served seven years, including two as president. She chaired key committees, co-chaired Governor Little’s Education Task Force, and led efforts during challenging times, such as reopening schools safely during the pandemic of 2020.
As Superintendent, Debbie has delivered real results: getting back to basics and returning reading instruction to phonics, making financial and digital literacy a graduation requirement, expanding career-technical education, and advocating for policies that put students first while supporting local schools.
With a lifelong dedication to Idaho’s students and families, Debbie is committed to honest leadership, transparency, and preparing the next generation for success. She’s ready to keep building a brighter future for Idaho education with strong leadership, working towards strong students for a strong Idaho.
Read more at Debbie4Idaho
Enrich Idaho 