Idaho Lottery Delivers Record $90 Million to Schools and State Buildings

The Idaho Lottery reached a major milestone this year, awarding a record-breaking $90 million to support public schools and state building projects after a strong jump in ticket sales.

The biggest share—$56.25 million—went to Idaho's K-12 public schools, marking the largest annual education dividend in the lottery's history. During a ceremony at the Statehouse, Lottery Commission Chairman Craig Corbett called it a year unlike any other.

While the payout is only a small part of Idaho's nearly $2.8 billion education budget, it's a significant boost compared to last year. In July 2025, the lottery distributed $46.9 million to K-12 schools, making this year's payment a substantial increase.

Governor Brad Little said the funding helps reduce pressure on local property taxpayers. Under a school facilities law passed in 2024, lottery education funds are no longer sent directly to school districts or charter schools. Instead, the money is placed into a statewide fund that helps cover voter-approved school bonds and levies.

Here's where the money is going:

• $56.25 million for K-12 public schools
• $33.75 million for Idaho's Permanent Building Fund
• Total payout: $90 million

The Permanent Building Fund supports major construction and renovation projects across the state, including facilities at Idaho's colleges and universities.

The celebration also included another announcement benefiting classrooms statewide. The Idaho Lottery awarded $417,500 to nearly 600 school programs and projects, including funding for 26 elementary school libraries and 53 classroom initiatives.

These grants were made possible by members of the Lottery VIP Club, who chose to donate their reward points instead of redeeming them for prizes or sweepstakes entries.

Lottery Director Andrew Arulanandam praised those members for giving back, saying their generosity continues to support meaningful educational programs across Idaho.

Since it was established in 1989, the Idaho Lottery has returned more than $1.4 billion to Idaho public schools and state building projects, making it an important source of long-term funding for education and public infrastructure.