Idaho law puts donated ‘In God We Trust’ posters in ‘conspicuous’ places at school

BOISE, Idaho -- Students in Idaho schools in the past year may have started seeing more prominent posters displaying the national motto, “In God We Trust,” in their classrooms.

That’s because of a law Idaho legislators passed last year requiring school districts and universities to display these posters or framed copies in “conspicuous” places if they’re donated and meet certain requirements.

The law applies to all public educational institutions under the control of the State Board of Education or the board of regents of the University of Idaho, which includes school districts, colleges and universities. The West Ada school board approved a new policy Monday to comply with the law.

Rep. Jeff Cornilles, a Nampa Republican who sponsored the legislation last year, said the national motto is historic and represents the country’s founding based on “ Judeo-Christian philosophies and rules.”

“It’s part of the founding fabric of our nation,” he told the Idaho Statesman. “And I think some of that’s been taken away from society and, in particular, some of our young people.”

Idaho law puts strict criteria on displays

The law, which took effect in July 2023, mandates that a school district display a durable poster or framed copy of the nation’s motto that was donated if it meets certain criteria.

The display must feature a representation of the U.S. or Idaho flag. It must also only contain black, white, gold or silver in the background, lettering and framing, and it can’t identify...