Private school choice
Tax Commission won’t release private school tax-credit data. Here’s who’s asking, and why it’s been denied
Some of the denied data would test a selling point of the program: that it helps students who couldn’t otherwise afford a private education.
Higher education
U of I hires first presidential endowed academic chair
Charter schools
Charter commission approves ‘final’ Gem Prep school
School board business
Coeur d’Alene donates portables to wildfire-damaged Washington district
School facilities
Emmett High’s dome days may be numbered
Career readiness
CEI Future Tech building opens to boost STEM pipeline
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Reporters break down Idaho School Benefit Trust in new ‘EdNews Show’ episode
Kevin Richert and Sean Dolan explain what it means for teachers and how it might impact taxpayers.
Special Series
The Idaho School Benefit Trust ran out of money in 2026 — leaving nearly 100 districts and charters to confront a health insurance crisis that had been building for years.
The trust’s fund balance fell from $22.5 million in 2021 to $2.1 million in just four years. Manager Debbie Hainke notified members of a shortfall in July but has declined to provide members or EdNews with financial documents.
EdNews has tracked the trust’s unraveling through public records, interviews and reporting. Our continuing coverage will investigate the ultimate cost to teachers and taxpayers.
Opinion
Spelling it Out
This series aims to break down complex terms, ideas, and jargon in education and become a resource for taxpayers, educators, parents, and students.