A few quick notes about this blog, and about me.

I envision this blog as a place to provide the story behind the stories I’ll cover for Idaho Education News. A place to provide analysis of education issues. A place to share the sidelights and anecdotes that don’t quite fit into a story, but are nonetheless interesting or important to the debate.

I’m also going to post some “essay questions.” When I spot an interesting national story on education, I’ll ask you to weigh in. As I get started on an in-depth look at a topic, I may seek your ideas at the outset. At Idaho Education News, we’re hoping to foster a discussion about K-12 — and we encourage you to take part.

My interest in education comes naturally: My father was a public school teacher; my oldest son is a product of Idaho public schools and the University of Idaho; my youngest son is a high school senior. I’ve spent 27 years working for Idaho newspapers. I come to Idaho Education News by way of the Idaho Statesman, where I spent 11 years as editorial page editor, columnist and blogger.

I’m looking forward to hosting this blog. Thanks for reading, and I hope you’ll join the conversation.