Kevin’s blog

Analysis: A tuition freeze stares into the cold wind of budget math

The one-year freeze doesn’t put universities in a budgeting bind. It only intensifies the pressure.

Congress considers short-term funding fix for schools in timber country

Since 2000, the Secure Rural Schools program has provided federal dollars for schools in timber country. Congress is expected to consider a two-year payment this week.

Boise State, Idaho State spell out cost-cutting plans

Boise State University will make a variety of moves in order to cut $2.1 million next year. Idaho State University is working out its plan to cut $1.6 million.

Superintendent Ybarra’s schedule: Dec. 16-18

On state superintendent Sherri Ybarra’s schedule this week: Land Board and State Board of Education meetings.

House Democrats elect leadership team

Rep. Ilana Rubel, a Boise attorney, will succeed former Rep. Mat Erpelding as minority leader. Rep. John McCrostie, a Garden City teacher, moves into the assistant minority leader’s post.

Analysis: Who gets a microphone in the education debate?

If we start limiting the education debate to the scholarly and impartial among us, we’re going to exclude a lot of people and dismiss a lot of perspective.

Superintendent Ybarra’s schedule: Dec. 9-13

This week’s schedule includes a conference call with an early education nonprofit, and a staff holiday party.

Erpelding resigns from Legislature

House Minority Leader Mat Erpelding served seven years in the Legislature. The Boise Democrat is stepping down to take a job with the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce.