Kevin’s blog

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

VIDEO: ‘Idaho Reports,’ Jan. 17

Among this week’s topics: the hearings on Common Core standards, and the expulsion of former Rep. John Green.

AUDIO: This week’s ‘Idaho Matters’ Reporter Roundtable

Among this week’s topics: The historic House vote to expel first-term state Rep. John Green, this week’s Common Core hearings and a look ahead to the education budget hearings at the Statehouse next week.

Meningitis vaccine guideline survives close House vote

The Department of Health and Welfare added the 12th-grade meningococcal vaccine to its list of guidelines last year.

Idaho Press: Senator floats bill to eliminate supplemental levies

Sen. Jim Rice, R-Caldwell, is seeking to increase the sales tax from 6 percent to 7 percent, and use the proceeds to replace voter-approved school supplemental tax levies.

Superintendent Ybarra’s schedule: Jan. 13-16

Here’s state superintendent Sherri Ybarra’s weekly schedule, as posted on her website.

This week on “Idaho Reports:” An interview with Brad Little

Gov. Brad Little talks about his State of the State address and his K-12 and higher education budget requests — and where he’d like to take the state in 2020 and beyond. The interview airs Friday at 8:30 p.m. MST and PST.

Lawmaker seeks to clamp down on school mascot changes

Rep. Chad Christensen, R-Ammon, says school boards should put mascot changes to a public vote.

Where to find me this session — online and on the air

We’ve partnered for years with Idaho Public Television, 6 On Your Side and Boise State Public Radio. Here’s what to look for and listen for this legislative session.