Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
More than scores: A national perspective on teacher evaluations
Teacher evaluations have changed rapidly — affecting the way states spend some half a trillion dollars of taxpayer money annually. Here’s a glimpse at the national debate.
Video: ‘Idaho Reports’ pundits panel, 5.27.16
A discussion of Idaho’s quirky campaign finance, laws the attempt to rewrite Idaho’s school funding formula and early predictions for the 2017 Legislature.
Video: Pre-K programs grow — but not in Idaho
According to a new national report, states spent an additional $500 million on pre-K programs in 2014-15. Idaho has no state-funded pre-K.
Times-News: Feds briefed on Dietrich sexual assault case
More details emerge from Dietrich — a small Magic Valley town reeling from shocking allegations of student sexual abuse.
In wake of sexual assault case, Dietrich school placed on lockdown
The woman detained in the lockdown is the sister of the student who says he was sexually assaulted by three high school football players, The Twin Falls Times-News reported Wednesday.
Grisly details emerge on student sexual assault in Dietrich
One suspect was arraigned Monday, while a second suspect faces a June 10 preliminary hearing. The Washington Post wrote about the sexual assault case Wednesday.
State drops ‘birth gender’ wording from application
A state spokesman called the wording a typo. A Boise parent considered it a potential threat to student privacy.
Pre-K programs grow significantly — but not in Idaho
State-funded pre-K programs accommodated about 1.4 million students in 2014-15, an increase of 37,000 students.
Video: What’s next in West Ada?
After the recalls of two trustees, the West Ada School District faces a big transition. Get the answers here.
Schools receive $1.9 million for fruits and vegetables
The federal grants will allow the schools to offer free mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks.