Kevin’s blog

Suspect pleads guilty in Dietrich locker room attack

John R.K. Howard faces two to three years’ probation. He could avoid jail or prison time, and have his conviction dismissed, if he successfully completes probation, the Times-News reported.

Lessons I learned from graduate school

As Idaho continues to focus on college graduation numbers, it must make sure college is affordable, and make sure students can take the classes they need, when they need them.

State Board survey: Schools need more money, and more flexibility

More than 2,100 Idahoans responded to the State Board of Education’s school funding survey — and most respondents have some direct connection to education.

Auditors: Most special education spending is not tied to need

Idaho spent $294 million on special education in 2014-15 — with only a sliver of the programs tied directly to the needs of its 29,700 special education students.

NNU earns high marks for preparing reading teachers

The Nampa university received an A-plus grade from a national nonprofit group. Only 13 of the nation’s 820 colleges of education received this mark.

At the Statehouse next week, focus turns to K-12 funding issues

Two legislative committees will convene next week to take a closer look at how Idaho funds its schools.

Analysis: Two new committee chairs jump into the spotlight

As education and tax debates loom for the 2017 legislative session, much of the drama will unfold in Rep. Julie VanOrden’s House Education Committee and Sen. Dan Johnson’s Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee.