Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
K-12 task force: what happens next?
Gov. Butch Otter’s education reform task force met Friday — with a strong show of consensus on a variety of issues. Now, the focus turns to the governor.
In Wendell, a switch in school schedules
The Magic Valley school district joins the growing ranks of schools that have adopted a four-day class calendar.
North Star, Meridian come to agreement
Two months ago, Idaho’s largest school district began the public process of trying to close one of the state’s largest charter schools. On Thursday, the Meridian School Board did an about-face.
K-12 endowment flap rooted in 2010 vote
This isn’t the first time Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna and fellow Republican Land Board members have been at odds over endowment payments to K-12.
Could furlough plan cost Nampa district?
It’s possible, after a district judge rejected the Nampa School District’s voluntary furlough plan. But according to the Idaho Education Association’s attorney, it’s too early to say what will happen next.
Sen. Cameron goes quiet on WiFi controversy
But the powerful co-chairman of the Legislature’ budget-writing committee, says he still has “strong feelings” about the controversial school WiFi contract.
Proposed school cell tower on hold
The Meridian School District allows cell phone towers on its campuses — but the latest proposed tower has run into some static.
WiFi deal: How ENA got the contract
How did Education Networks of America win a multiyear high school WiFi installation contract — even though four bidders beat the company’s price? Let’s take a deeper dive into the scoring process, and the state’s documentation.
Going Greek: Crapo touts yogurt pilot project
Twin Falls-based Chobani will provide Greek yogurt to school cafeterias in four states this fall — and supporters hope the pilot project will go national.
Otter names lobbyist as campaign manager
In another sign that he will seek a third term in 2014, Gov. Butch Otter has named an industry lobbyist to manage his (as yet unannounced) re-election campaign.