Kevin’s blog
Tech contract controversies: an outline
Two big contracts. A lot of moving parts. And big decisions for state officials. The Idaho Education Network broadband battle and the WiFi project controversy, explained.
Movement on the pre-K bill
A pre-K pilot bill will get its initial legislative hearing Monday. But as the session heads into its final weeks, the chances of passage would still appear to be remote.
Former ENA staffer on Otter’s campaign
In September, Martin Bilbao left Education Networks of America, a contractor that holds contentious school broadband and WiFi contracts. Bilbao joined Gov. Butch Otter’s campaign staff in October.
Broadband contract surprises lawmakers
The state extended the Idaho Education Network broadband contract through 2019 — a year ahead of schedule, the Spokane Spokesman-Review reported Tuesday.
Third party, Eynon in simmering feud
The state Constitution Party claims John Eynon remains in possession of a host of party records and internal documents. The former Constitution Party official is now running for state superintendent on the Republican ticket.
Boise chamber touts pre-K pilot
The Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce supports a bill to establish a three-year pre-K pilot program — a proposal that has been mired in a House committee for six weeks.
Priorities in the broadband budget debate
Do lawmakers want to keep the current broadband system in place, and the current contract on the books? Or do they want to take a step back and look at other options?
Video: Making the Grade, Feb. 19
In this week’s “Making the Grade” segment Kevin Richert and Idaho on Your Side’s Michelle Edmonds discuss the prospects for teacher pay raises, school security issues and the technology pilot programs.
Facebook flap: State will not pursue case
The state found insufficient basis for disciplinary action against Laraine Cook, the Pocatello High School teacher and girls’ basketball coach who was fired in October.
Luna: Idaho not ready for pre-K pilot
State superintendent Tom Luna says Idahoans “would be remiss to ignore” the fact that some students aren’t prepared for kindergarten. But he doesn’t believe a pre-K pilot program is the answer.