Kevin’s blog
Freedom Foundation writes a budget
The Idaho Freedom Foundation’s blueprint would put no money into recommendations from Gov. Butch Otter’s education reform task force — even though the group’s own survey of teachers found strong support for the recommendations.
Thayn, Thompson eye superintendent’s run
With state superintendent Tom Luna out of the running, Rep. Jeff Thompson and Sen. Steven Thayn both say they are giving the race a look. Melinda Smyser — a former legislator, school counselor and Parma School Board member — says she has decided against a run.
Video: A quick look at Luna’s legacy
Here’s one look at state superintendent Tom Luna’s eight years in office, from KIVI and KNIN’s Jake Melder.
Superintendent’s race: the Smyser rumor
Former state Sen. Melinda Smyser — a former teacher, counselor and Parma school trustee — still isn’t talking about a possible run for state superintendent.
Luna’s election announcement, Storified
It was an eventful and surprising day in Idaho political and education circles. Here’s a quick, real-time look at how the story went down Monday.
Idaho’s low go-on rate, explained
Idaho’s last-in-the-nation rankings in college attendance continue a long statistical pattern.
Video: ‘Making the Grade,’ Jan. 22
This week, Kevin Richert and Michelle Edmonds of KIVI and KNIN talk about the state schools superintendent’s race — and how the Common Core controversy factors into the election.
Analysis: Luna’s budget, Version 2.0
More money to help school districts still reeling from the recession. Money for the teacher salary base. Superintendent Tom Luna’s 2014-15 budget rewrite contains two significant changes, perhaps reflecting the political realities of the moment.
Teacher survey: lesson in Common Core?
A survey of teachers — conducted by a conservative group opposing Idaho Core Standards — finds solid support for the new math and English language arts standards.
Otter fundraising exceeds $900,000
In 2013, Gov. Butch Otter has raised more than $901,000 for his expected run for a third term in office. Statewide candidates must file their 2013 fundraising reports by Jan. 31.