Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
Trump renews push for school choice initiative
In his first speech to a joint session of Congress, President Trump said disadvantaged families “should be free to choose the public, private, charter, magnet, religious or home school that is right for them.”
Mountain View will allow staffers to carry firearms in school
Staff members will be allowed to carry a concealed firearm and act as security officers — provided they choose to take training and receive permission from the school board.
Trump White House rolls back transgender student policies
Gov. Butch Otter and state superintendent Sherri Ybarra opposed the Obama administration’s guidelines, issued in May.
Crapo, Risch join push to save federal schools program
The Secure Rural Schools program was worth $6.7 million to schools in Idaho timber country. Funding dried up nearly a year ago.
Senate Education takes up science standards Thursday
On Feb. 9, the House Education Committee deleted references to climate change from the science standards. Idaho’s current standards have been on the books since 2001.
Bieter, City Council, YMCA back Boise bond issue
“Quality education is the cornerstone to our economy and to maintaining a livable city,” Mayor Dave Bieter said, in support of the $172.5 million bond issue.
Crapo staffer: Calls ran overwhelmingly against DeVos
About 95 percent of callers voiced opposition to controversial education secretary nominee Betsy DeVos, Crapo aide Bryan Ricker said in an article in the Ontario, Ore., Argus Observer.
Students plan anti-DeVos rally at Statehouse
We need to show her that we are watching and will take action if she tries to violate our right to a public education,” student organizers said on a Facebook page promoting Thursday’s rally.
Clow takes another run at Internet sales taxes
For years, some policymakers have pointed to Internet sales — and the growing e-commerce sector — as an untapped source of revenue for education and other state programs.
Funding formula committee will meet — briefly
Wednesday’s 30-minute meeting is a bit of a formality. The committee is expected to continue working through 2017, and draw up recommendations for the 2018 Legislature.