Featured Series

Stories about Idaho’s educators, students and policy makers plus features on bright spots in Idaho education.

Analysis: The U of I-Phoenix talks, and where things stand

It’s been 139 days since the proposed University of Idaho-University of Phoenix megadeal was last in the public eye. All of that will probably change in January, when the Legislature returns.

A calendar change can cut classroom days — but it doesn’t slash costs

There are plenty of unanswered questions about four-day schools — particularly when it comes to student achievement. But when it comes to the impact on the bottom line — or lack thereof — the research is clear.

School choice

Spelling it Out: School Choice Update: This guide was updated on Oct. 28 to remove an incorrect reference to transportation funding for charter schools. Charters receive transportation funding from the state. It was also updated to provide additional details on charter schools’ admission procedures. Following Idaho’s ongoing debate over school choice can be difficult, thanks…

A popular unknown: Shortening the school week expands across Idaho

This fall, about 100,000 Idaho kids will attend a four-day school. The impacts on student performance are unclear. The savings for taxpayers are limited.

The four-day schools project: A second look at a growing trend

Idaho EdNews senior reporter Kevin Richert will spend the 2024-25 school year digging deep into four-day schools. And we want to hear from students, parents, teachers and school officials.

A deep dive into four-day schools — and researchers found contradictions

The move to a four-day school schedule delivers a variety of benefits, supporters say. Researchers instead found a gap between perception and reality.

The inception of the College of Western Idaho: A community-driven project

It took a two-thirds referendum approval, seed money from the governor, an advocacy campaign and local grants to launch what today serves 30,000 students.

Balancing expansion and the evolution of higher education

One of the College of Western Idaho’s main goals is to connect students seeking employment with businesses in need of workers. 

Nichelle Boyce, a single parent in surgical technology

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized…

Jory Skidmore, a 35-year-old welding student

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized…