Month: March 2020

Statehouse roundup, 3.13.20: Senators reject guns-in-schools bill

Law enforcement officials joined education lobbyists in opposition to the bill, which would have allowed employees with enhanced concealed weapons permits to carry firearms in school.

Candidate filings, 3.12.20: T-minus one day …

The filing period closes at 5 p.m. Friday. If past election cycles are any indication, expect a flurry of late activity.

Analysis: The darkening cloud overshadowing Idaho’s higher ed budget debate

Lawmakers are haggling over a relatively small amount of money in this year’s higher education budget. As the global coronavirus pandemic worsens, next year’s decisions could be even tougher.

Lawmakers push toward adjournment amid coronavirus concerns

No date has been set as of Thursday afternoon. But leadership said adjournment will happen before the March 20 target.

UPDATE: More districts restrict travel as coronavirus surrounds Idaho

Thursday update: Districts are pondering what to do as the virus spreads. Check back here for regular updates.

Idaho State University closes Meridian campus; other institutions shift coursework online

Current plans and procedures including a travel ban, suspension of athletic events and possible campus-wide closures.

Statehouse roundup, 3.12.20: Clow’s bill on SDE responsibilities is on hold, but debate remains unresolved

The debate could flare up again when the SDE office budget hits the House floor.

Candidate filings, 3.11.20: Another former House member seeks a comeback

The filing period runs through Friday. Check back for daily updates.

Who’s Idaho’s next Teacher of the Year?

If you know a good candidate, the State Department of Education is seeking nominations.

Statehouse roundup, 3.11.20: New bill would phase out master educator premium program

More inside: Are lawmakers sparring over the responsibilities of superintendent Sherri Ybarra’s State Department of Education?