Lawsuit filed against Pocatello-Chubbuck school district

A lawsuit has been filed against the Pocatello-Chubbuck School Disctrict at the U.S. District Court. A few parents in Pocatello are suing because of alleged “unconstitutional fees.”

Writing utensils, paper, lab course fees, other class fees and even extracurricular activities for kids, the cost comes out of your pocket as parents.

Attorney At Law for The Huntley Law Firm in Boise, Robert C. Huntley says that is wrong. And this is what he’s calling “unconstitutional fees.”

“These charges have been illegal since day one. School districts were starting to charge these fees in 1990,” said Huntley.

He says it’s been going on for more than 15 years. And finally, a few parents in Pocatello have had enough. According to the lawsuit filed, the parents are seeking the “free common school” provision of Article Nine Section One of the State Constitution. Meaning, schools should provide their own materials for students at no cost.

“I feel that they should speak up to the legislature and get funded, rather than violating the Idaho Constitution. The school boards should be setting a standard for the children that they have in their system – to honor and respect the constitution,” said Huntley.

Even though the lawsuit has been filed, the Pocatello-Chubbuck School District says they have not been served with the lawsuit yet, and therefore, was not able comment Tuesday.

Meanwhile, one Pocatello mother of five children, ranging from elementary to high school, says she knows schools here in Pocatello are underfunded and understands.

“One hundred percent. They’re funding is so cut back that they can’t provide everything that is needed,” said Debrah Bassett, mother of five.
Huntley says the lawsuit was filed on Monday. And it will go to court in the next 3 or 4 months. Unless, it is settled before then.