Idaho Science and Technology Charter School (ISTCS) was established in 2009 as a charter middle school in Blackfoot, Idaho.  Its founding mission emphasized preparation for careers in a global marketplace, especially careers in science and technology.

Almost immediately, the school underwent pragmatic changes in its vision. Evidence that middle school students are not developmentally ready to prepare for careers forced educational program changes.  School viability was dependent on offering a variety of electives, especially in music and art.  Soon, the school began to move away from career preparation and towards teaching the application of skills necessary to succeed in science such as problem solving, inquiry, collaboration, constructing and testing a hypothesis, and effectively communicating results.

At the time of its charter renewal in 2018, the school had effectively transitioned from its original career focus to an emphasis on providing applied, project-based learning in a positive, collaborative culture. As part of its renewal process, the school transitioned from offering grades 4–8 to offering grades K-8.

The culture of ISTCS is its defining trait.  The school has a reputation for being a safe, caring school that systematically teaches students positive social skills. Stakeholder surveys consistently indicate that families choose to have their children attend the school because of its positive, supportive culture.

The educational program at ISTCS is centered on a project-based learning philosophy aligned with Idaho State Standards.  Students learn best when they are personally invested in their own learning.  Project-based learning encourages active student engagement as students tackle real-world problems that require them to apply academic knowledge gained in core ELA and math courses using real-world skills including scientific inquiry, problem solving, research, collaboration, and effectively articulating a conclusion.

            Expected student outcomes for children attending ISTCS go far beyond traditional testing methods.  While student achievement has consistently trended upwards and students at ISTCS tend to outperform their local peers as measured by standardized tests, the educational program at the school is designed to produce confident, independent thinkers who can manage complex projects and effectively communicate the results of their work.