Kevin’s blog

Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.

Report: Teacher taped student’s mouth

North Star Charter School is saying little about the reported incident, and the complaint against fifth-grade teacher Julie Handyside.

Hear from task force members Nov. 13

Three members of the 31-person task force will discuss the plan at a City Club of Boise forum.

Democrats: We have a (secret) plan …

Democrats met last weekend in Twin Falls. Still no public word, yet, on announced candidates for governor, state superintendent of public instruction, or other statewide races.

Lands transfer: Lawmakers get an earful

Some legislators believe a transfer of public lands from Uncle Sam to the state will boost education funding. But one Idaho timber industry representative is hoping for reforms at the federal level — and tribal leaders oppose the transfer.

Is Luna changing his views on pre-K?

A news story suggests Superintendent Tom Luna’s opposition to pre-kindergarten programs is softening.

Notebook: secretary of state’s race

A few quick hits from the secretary of state’s race. Who’s backing state Rep. Lawerence Denney, and why? And who else might jump in the race?

Idaho test scores: a global comparison

Idaho eighth-graders outperformed national and international averages on math and science tests, according to a new study. But Idaho still lagged behind several nations, such as Japan, Chinese Taipei and the Republic of Korea.