Idaho Expands Parent LINK Program to Support Special Education Families

New statewide mentorship program connects parents with trained peers who have navigated the system.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Idaho Department of Education is expanding its Parent LINK mentorship program statewide to provide peer support for parents of special education students. The program, which was piloted in the Lake Pend Oreille School District, connects families with trained mentors who have firsthand experience with the special education system and can offer tailored guidance within local school districts.

Why it matters

Many parents of special education students struggle to navigate the complex and technical special education system without adequate support. The Parent LINK program aims to empower families by connecting them with knowledgeable mentors who can help guide them through processes like child find, IEPs, and accessing district and state resources.

The details

Ten parent mentors have completed training in the Lake Pend Oreille School District and are currently supporting families there. The statewide expansion is part of a broader effort by the Idaho Department of Education to strengthen special education services and improve communication with parents across the state.

  • The Parent LINK program was piloted in the Lake Pend Oreille School District.
  • The program is now set to expand statewide.

The players

Debbie Critchfield

Superintendent of Public Instruction for the Idaho Department of Education.

Melissa Vian

Director of the Idaho Parents Unlimited Parent Training and Information Center.

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What they’re saying

“The program helps bring guidance directly to families in their own communities.”

— Debbie Critchfield, Superintendent of Public Instruction (dailyfly.com)

“Families often face a complex and technical system without adequate support.”

— Melissa Vian, Director, Idaho Parents Unlimited Parent Training and Information Center (dailyfly.com)

The takeaway

The expansion of the Parent LINK program demonstrates Idaho's commitment to empowering families of special education students by connecting them with knowledgeable peer mentors who can provide tailored guidance and support within their local school districts.