Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
Survey: Teachers support state standards, question assessments
The national teachers’ survey mirrors the political sentiment surrounding the Idaho Core Standards — and the online exam aligned to the standards.
ISU president’s search begins next week
The State Board of Education hopes to name a new president by March. Arthur Vailas is retiring after 12 years at the helm.
AP: Dietrich settles lawsuit over locker-room assault
The family of the assault victim had filed a $10 million civil suit, saying district officials knew about an escalating pattern of bullying and harassment — or should have been aware of it.
Maine unveils its version of a 60 percent goal
Maine wants 60 percent of its residents to hold a postsecondary degree or certificate by 2025. The goal more or less mirrors Idaho’s much-discussed and elusive 60 percent goal.
Shoshone will run another bond issue in November
A similar bond issue received 58 percent support in August, falling short of the two-thirds supermajority needed for passage.
Direct admissions: State accepts 20,213 seniors for college
Seniors will get their direct admission letters in the mail in the next few days. The direct admissions program is one of several state initiatives designed to boost college go-on rates.
Horman rules out run for state superintendent
Rep. Wendy Horman, R-Idaho Falls, is a key Statehouse figure on education topics. She will instead run for a fourth term in the Legislature.
In New Mexico, another heated debate over science standards
New Mexico’s education department has edited the standards’ wording on evolution and climate change, to the chagrin of science teachers and environmentalists.
Magic Valley districts fill vacancies with unlicensed teachers
As Idaho grapples with an ongoing teacher shortage, Magic Valley schools are filling vacancies through alternative routes — and, in some cases, by hiring unlicensed teachers.
Colorado issues its own college completion goal
While Idaho wrestles with its “60 percent” postsecondary completion goal, Colorado wants 66 percent of its adults to hold a degree or postsecondary certificate.