The Boise School District encompasses 33 elementary schools, 8 junior high schools, and 5 high schools, serving approximately 25,000 students. The district's commitment to excellence is reflected in its student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, below the national average, ensuring personalized attention for students. Each of the district's comprehensive high schools offers unique programs: Boise High School's acclaimed IB program has a nearly 100% pass rate and offers over 25 AP courses; Timberline High School specializes in STEM initiatives and houses a state-of-the-art Innovation Lab; Capital High School features a comprehensive Health Sciences program with a fully equipped medical simulation lab and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
The district's focus on advanced education extends to its middle schools, where programs like the Treasure Valley Math and Science Center accept gifted students starting in sixth grade. North Junior High's Pre-Engineering program introduces students to CAD software and 3D printing technology, while East Junior High offers an advanced Spanish immersion continuation program. Riverglen Junior High has gained recognition for its innovative AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program, preparing students for college readiness.
Elementary education in Boise features several specialized programs. Whittier Elementary offers a full Spanish immersion program starting in kindergarten. Riverside Elementary houses the district's Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program, providing accelerated learning opportunities for high-achieving students. Washington Elementary features a unique arts integration program, while Liberty Elementary has implemented a successful STEM focus with a maker space and coding curriculum.
Private school options extend beyond the previously mentioned institutions. St. Joseph's Catholic School (K-8) offers a rigorous classical education curriculum with an average class size of 20 students. Sacred Heart Catholic School emphasizes STEM education and features a 1:1 technology program. The Challenger School - Meridian campus provides accelerated programs in reading and mathematics, with students typically performing several grade levels above their peers.
Boise State University's involvement in K-12 education includes the Boise State STEM Station, offering after-school and summer programs for students interested in science and technology. The university's IDoTeach program partners with local schools to enhance STEM education and provide mentorship opportunities. The College of Education's Professional Development School program places student teachers in local classrooms, enriching the learning environment.
The West Ada School District, serving the growing communities of Meridian, Eagle, and Star, complements Boise's educational options with specialized programs like:
- The Meridian Medical Arts Charter High School, offering a pre-medical focused curriculum
- Idaho Fine Arts Academy, providing intensive visual and performing arts education
- Galileo STEM Academy, featuring project-based learning and advanced technology integration
- Eagle High School's Project Lead The Way program, offering college-level engineering courses
For families with special needs children, the Boise area offers comprehensive support through programs like the Lee Pesky Learning Center, which provides specialized instruction and assessment services. The Aztec Learning Center offers intensive reading and mathematics intervention programs, while the Pioneer School of the Arts provides arts-integrated special education services.
Early childhood education options include the Boise and Meridian Montessori schools, the Creative Children's Center, and numerous preschool programs affiliated with local elementary schools. The Boise State University Children's Center provides high-quality early education with a focus on STEM and language development.
