Kevin’s blog

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

Senate Education chairman faces censure

Kootenai County Republicans are targeting Sen. John Goedde and three House Republicans who supported a state-run health exchange.

State moving to repair aging Salmon schools

The state will take the unusual step of bankrolling $3.6 million in repair work at two aging Salmon schools. But the actual work won’t begin until spring 2014.

Idaho education colleges get spotty grades

Idaho’s colleges and universities earn a “D” for preparing the next generation of teachers, according to a new study. But how does the state really measure up, especially compared to its neighbors?

Crapo, Risch decry cuts to rural communities

A program providing federal funding for counties and schools faces a 5 percent budget cut — and Idaho senators are accusing the Obama administration of politicizing the cuts.

Second life for Nampa raffle fundraiser?

The Idaho Lottery says a house raffle could proceed, in hopes of helping the Nampa School District defray its deficit. But the developer organizing the fundraiser is weighing his options.

What’s in a nickname?

In eastern Idaho’s Teton School District, there’s controversy. And plenty of it. Amidst swift and fierce community outcry, the district’s superintendent is keeping the high school’s “Redskins” moniker intact, for now.

Idaho Education Network honored for innovation

The Idaho Education Network, a statewide broadband system, has succeeded in leveling the state’s educational playing field, according to the National Journal.

Silverback secures $2.5 million angel investment

The Boise company hopes to use the infusion of cash to expand the reach of Mileposts — its software system to track student growth and performance, now used in 34 Idaho school districts and 80 districts nationwide.

Chapter ends for Rigby school librarians

Looking to cut $471,000 from its budget, an eastern Idaho school district is cutting its library staff.

Nampa reacts to ‘screw the auditors’ lawsuit

Pete Koehler, the Nampa School District’s new interim superintendent, says he cannot recall saying the cash-strapped district should “screw” the auditing process that governs Title I spending.