Idaho Children Rejected from School because of Sexual Behavior

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Six foster kids being treated for inappropriate sexual behavior were rejected from public schools this week after district officials blocked their enrollment, though they aren't in Idaho juvenile corrections custody.

The Department of Health and Welfare sought to place the children in schools in Mountain Home, an Air Force town east of Boise. Though they aren't in Idaho's juvenile correction system, these kids live at a treatment center that does house children convicted of sexual offenses. DHW says it has nowhere else for them to go, due to shortages of foster homes.

They agency says they belong in public school, to help their recovery. But Mountain Home School District Superintendent Tim McMurtry denied DHW's request. Though reconsideration was discussed, the agency dropped its bid this week as community opposition escalated.