Kevin’s blog
Ahlquist touts — and defends — his pledge to cut state budget
“To be clear, I’m not talking about cutting education or critical needs funding,” the Boise Republican said Wednesday. Key legislators have questioned Ahlquist’s pledge to cut budgets by $100 million.
With omissions, House panel draws up proposed education budget
The budget does not fund two Trump administration school choice proposals — and a grant program that helps 144 Idaho districts and charters train teachers and reduce class sizes.
Yates kicks off run for lieutenant governor
Former state Republican Party chairman Steve Yates joins a crowded GOP field hoping to succeed outgoing Lt. Gov. Brad Little.
A four-day schedule: a tough ‘bandwagon’ to escape?
School districts save little money by shifting to a four-day calendar. But once they make a schedule change, it is politically difficult to turn back, according to a scholar who specializes in rural education.
New report outlines education’s role in work force development
At Gov. Butch Otter’s request, 17 industry representatives spent six months studying work force development issues. The group has plenty of homework for Idaho’s education system.
A June boon bolsters Idaho’s revenues
Don’t expect the state to spend this money any time soon. The robust tax collections mean the state will put more money into one of its rainy-day accounts.
Leroy announces fundraising totals, endorsements
With $114,000 in donations, David Leroy takes an early fundraising edge in the 1st Congressional District race. But $50,000 came in the form of a personal contribution to the campaign.
Statehouse shakeup: Keough will not seek re-election
Sen. Shawn Keough, a 22-year Senate veteran, will not seek re-election in 2018, the Bonner County Bee reported Tuesday.
Judge cleared of misconduct in Dietrich assault trial
The Idaho Judicial Council says District Judge Randy Stoker properly presided over a trial stemming from the gruesome October 2015 attack in a Dietrich High School locker room.
Fulcher touts fundraising, announces endorsements
The list of endorsements includes backing from 22 legislators — and appears designed to solidify the congressional candidate’s support from Idaho’s conservative wing.