Idaho Schools Worried about Broadband’s Future

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho school officials say the statewide broadband Internet service is influencing almost every aspect of their students' education, but a recent court battle has put the service in jeopardy.

The Idaho Statesman reports that students at schools like Kuna Middle School depend on the high-speed Internet access for classroom assignments and for taking statewide achievement tests. However, a November court ruling called the state's $60 million broadband contract illegal.

State officials like Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna have voiced their support of continuing the service but the future of Idaho's broadband is unknown. Kuna Middle School Principal Deb McGrath says her school would take a financial hit if forced to pay for Internet services without the state's help.