News
The latest and breaking news and investigative reports about Idaho public education.
SDE names new communications director
Mary McFarland, a former Eagle City Council member and business owner, will take over the post.
Analysis: An unprecedented legislative session will come to an unpredictable finish
No one seems to know what to expect when lawmakers return to Boise in April. But important — and even historic — education legislation hangs in the balance.
Campus coronavirus roundup, 3.22.21: A surprising decrease in cases at BYU-Idaho
Last week, the New York Times identified Rexburg as a national coronavirus hotspot.
Students organize vigil against anti-Asian racism
The vigil was to talk about anti-Asian discrimination around the country. One state representative says the problem is “already here.”
CDC shortens social-distancing guidance to 3 feet for students in school
The change from 6 feet to 3 feet offers some relief to educators as Idaho’s large districts plan to return fully in-person after Spring Break.
Analysis: Idaho grudgingly accepts a staggering windfall from the feds
Idaho K-12 and higher education will receive more than $500 million — eclipsing the combined total from the two previous coronavirus stimulus laws. The money will go a long way toward determining student success.
SAT scores for 2020 seniors follow Idaho’s downward trend
The exam measures “college and career readiness” and is important because Idaho pays for all students to take it in an effort to promote continuing education.
Legislative roundup, 3.18.21: Rural teacher certification bill held in committee
Also, one more member of the House Education Committee tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total up to three.
Senators kill ‘shall-to-may’ bargaining bill
The bill would have given school boards the option of negotiating with teachers unions. A bipartisan coalition of Senate Education Committee members killed the proposal.
Legislative roundup, 3.17.21: Senators pass higher education budget
In other Statehouse news, senators keep the August school election date on the books, and a second House Education Committee member tests positive for coronavirus.