Kevin’s blog

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

Taking a big leap for Idaho schools?

A Texas man has won the rights to re-enact Evel Knievel’s failed Snake River Canyon leap. The bid could bring in some $1 million for Idaho schools, according to the Idaho Department of Lands.

Task force frowns on arming teachers

A state task force is reexamining school safety issues. But the group’s recommendations are just that: recommendations. State law gives the final say to local school boards.

Downplaying scores, touting participation

Idaho has the highest percentage of high school students taking the Scholastic Aptitude Test. Students aren’t required to take the SAT, but the state will cover student fees for the college entrance exam.

N. Idaho district considers arming teachers

A Lake Pend Oreille school board trustee says armed and trained teachers would be able to move quickly in a crisis.

In Vallivue, it’s time to name that school

Voters in this Canyon County district approved a bond issue to build a second high school and ease the pressure on an overcrowded Vallivue High School. Now, the new school needs a name.

Idahoans’ many paths to college

Idaho’s high school graduating class of 2012 wound up enrolling in more than 450 colleges in 49 states. But, as the Idaho Statesman reported Tuesday, fewer than half of the state’s grads continued their education.

Perfect 2,400: I.F. student aces SAT

Jackson Barber took the test early — during his sophomore year at Idaho Falls High School — and scored a perfect 800 on all three sections.

Elections: Denney to challenge Ysursa?

The secretary of state, Idaho’s elections umpire, also has a say on K-12 endowment issues. Former Idaho House Speaker Lawerence Denney has filed the initial paperwork for a possible challenge to 12-year incumbent Ben Ysursa.

Boise boasts 32 national merit semifinalists

Statewide, 80 high school seniors are in the running for the prestigious scholarships. About $35 million in scholarships are awarded to 8,000 scholars nationally.

Statistical quirks from Idaho SAT Day

Find out which school — and which school district — posted Idaho’s top SAT scores. And find out how your local school and district stacks up.