Featured Series

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

Why they showed up: Three students tell their stories

For students who returned to campus for the 2020-21 school year, showing up was a matter of setting aside concerns about the coronavirus, or accepting required protocols.

Parents filed a federal complaint against an Idaho school district. A state audit showed similar problems

An audit of Wilder School District’s English Language Learner programs found issues in 18 of 23 areas reviewed for compliance with state and federal law.

Statements show thousands of dollars worth of unexplained purchases at Ammon charter school

Expense reports lack details about what school leaders bought from places such as TJ Maxx, Netflix and area grocery stores.

Terry Ryan transformed Idaho education. He’s not done yet.

The controversial out-of-stater has influenced the addition of 12,000 public charter seats in Idaho. He plans to add thousands more, causing a disruption to traditional schools.

New State Board president aims to draw Idaho’s leaders back into consensus over education priorities

“If we don’t have alignment with the Legislature on what’s important, and they don’t support it and fund it, we’re not going to get anything done,” said Kurt Liebich.

Charter commission probes $11,500 in unexplained payments at Ammon school

New details about an ongoing investigation into the school revolve around credit card purchases totaling $9,316.07 from October to December 2020, and $2,176.16 in “reimbursements” to employees dating back to July.

Her passion for politics is rooted in the Boy Scouts oath

Halli Stone has long voiced her opposition to things like abortion and the Equal Rights Amendment. Today her fight is against bonds and levies for her children’s schools. She’s winning.

Lapwai addresses mental health by understanding a child’s personal story and culture

The district’s approach to behavioral health includes focusing on teaching positive behavior expectations, partnering with agencies for on-site therapy, training staff on trauma and incorporating Nez Perce culture at every turn.

Cassia ‘Connect’ program aims to give every student access to immediate help

A student just has to call a phone number where they can receive immediate crisis counseling, and set up an appointment with a local mental health professional.

Nampa’s in-school therapy partnerships lead to measurable success

In-school therapy is an increasingly popular mental health support in Idaho schools. Nampa’s partnerships offer a glimpse into the strengths and challenges of that model.