Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
Boise State touts progress on its ’60 percent’ benchmarks
A record 3,140 Boise State students received bachelor’s degrees in 2016-17, exceeding a State Board of Education goal established in 2010.
Otter, lawmakers consider deposits into K-12 piggy bank
The Public Education Stabilization Fund is Idaho’s budget reserve for covering unexpected K-12 costs. The account is expected to dip to its lowest level in five years.
Balukoff launches campaign
“A generation of Idaho children are coming of age without the skills they need to succeed,” the longtime Boise school trustee said Wednesday. He is running for governor on the Democratic ticket.
National report paints a grim picture of Idaho K-12 spending
In 2014-15, only one state spent less money per-pupil than Idaho.
Former state Rep. Brandon Hixon dies of suicide
Hixon, of Cadwell, resigned from the Legislature in October, amidst a criminal investigation. Hixon was also charged with driving under the influence in two separate incidents in December.
Senate Republicans reshuffle leadership team
Chuck Winder of Boise will serve as majority leader. Steve Vick of Dalton Gardens will serve as assistant majority leader, and Kelly Anthon of Burley will serve as caucus chair.
Coeur d’Alene has 34 applicants for superintendent’s post
The district hopes to select three or four finalists in the next two weeks, with on-site interviews to follow the week of Jan. 29.
Otter endorses higher ed ‘CEO’ proposal
Gov. Butch Otter will present a proposal for a “CEO” to the 2018 Legislature. “I just think it’s time,” Otter said Thursday.
What research says about attitudes about college
Several recent surveys point to a similar conclusion, the Houston Chronicle reported last week. Young adults seem to be increasingly skeptical about the value of college.
More discussion about our ‘Life After High School’ series
On Friday’s “Idaho Reports” on Idaho Public Television, the pundits’ panel discusses Idaho’s efforts to convince high school graduates to continue their education.