(Critchfield Campaign Press Release, January 7, 2026)
BOISE, Idaho — Debbie Critchfield announced today that she’s running for re-election in 2026 as a Republican for Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Since taking office, Critchfield has focused on delivering the commitments she made to Idaho voters in 2022—returning classrooms to proven fundamentals, improving student outcomes, and ensuring education leads to real opportunity. Under her leadership, Idaho has made measurable progress aligned with those promises
“I’m honored to serve Idaho students, families, and educators, and I’m excited to continue building on the progress we’ve made, ” Critchfield said. “There is more work to do, and I’m ready to keep moving Idaho education forward”.
A key focus of Critchfield’s tenure has been getting education back to the basics, particularly through early literacy and evidence-based phonics instruction. Statewide assessment data show measurable gains in early reading, with scores for kindergarten through third grade increasing by 11 percent last year alone.
Idaho has seen important gains in post-secondary readiness and career opportunities for students. The state now has its highest graduation rate in the past ten years, reflecting increased student engagement and achievement. Idaho also ranks number one in the nation for career and technical education with dual-credit participation. Through her signature initiative, Idaho Career Ready Students, Critchfield has expanded opportunities for students to earn college credit, gain workforce skills, and graduate with a clear plan for their future.
Critchfield has also led efforts to modernize graduation requirements by strengthening expectations in digital and financial literacy, helping ensure students leave high school with the practical skills needed for today’s economy.
“Our students deserve an education that prepares them for the real world. We are giving them strong skills in math, science, and technology, the ability to think critically, and the tools to navigate today’s online world responsibly,” Critchfield said.
Her focus on clear, practical education priorities has been paired with responsible stewardship of state resources and support for local schools as they respond to the unique needs of their communities.
“From reading proficiency to career pathways and real-world readiness, we are focused on results that matter to Idaho families,” Critchfield said. “Our students deserve an education that prepares them not just to graduate, but to build a strong future.”
Critchfield’s reelection campaign will focus on sustaining momentum in academic achievement, expanding pathways to success for students of all interests, and keeping parents and educators at the center of decisions that impact Idaho classrooms while preserving Idaho values and local control.
The 2026 primary election for Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction will be on May 19, 2026.
About Debbie Critchfield
Debbie Critchfield is Idaho’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, serving since January 2023 and running for re-election. A fourth-generation Idahoan, she lives in Oakley with her husband, Dave, and is a proud mother and grandmother. Debbie began her education career as a substitute teacher and GED instructor and served on the Cassia County School Board for ten years. She later served seven years on the Idaho State Board of Education, including two as president. As Superintendent, she has focused on phonics-based reading instruction, financial and digital literacy, and expanding career-technical education—working to build strong students for a strong Idaho.
