Kevin’s blog
House floor fireworks: Five lawmakers defy leadership
The conservative lawmakers requested to be removed from House committees. The move came four days after leadership stripped Rep. Heather Scott of her committee assignments.
Idaho schools receive improved grades in statewide survey
Nearly 37 percent of respondents rated Idaho’s schools as “excellent” or “good,” up from 28 percent in 2016. Boise State University conducted the telephone survey in December.
Analysis: Heather Scott’s demotion, and the legislative fallout
Last week, the controversial conservative signed on to a “Freedom Agenda” that took aim at Idaho Core Standards, standardized tests and the state’s ban on using public dollars to support religious schools.
Doubleheader: CDA to seek bond issue, levy in March
The district will seek a $35.5 million bond issue and a $32 million supplemental levy on March 14.
Boise developer considering a run for governor
Tommy Ahlquist is “seriously considering” entering the Republican field, the developer and doctor told Don Day of BoiseDev.com Wednesday night.
Boise chamber wants Legislature to review pre-K issue
“More Idaho children need to be ready to learn when they enter kindergarten under a program that features parental choice, local control and collaborative funding,” the chamber said Tuesday.
Analysis: In a climate of political change, Otter stays the course
On education, Gov. Butch Otter stayed close to his five-year plan. On taxes, highways and health care, he punted.
Idaho gets a D-plus in Education Week rankings
Some of the factors will come as little surprise: low per-pupil spending, low preschool attendance and low percentages of adults with a college degree.
Blaine County hires its own lobbyist
The district will pay $3,300 a month to Phil Homer, a former district superintendent who has lobbied for the Idaho Association of School Administrators.
Reading Revisited: Catch up on our literacy project
We worked with Idaho Public Television to take an in-depth look at Idaho’s literacy initiative. Get caught up on our stories, this week’s “Idaho Reports” and our “Extra Credit” podcast.