News

The latest and breaking news and investigative reports about Idaho public education.

Idaho’s $715 million school election day

At least 46 of Idaho’s 115 school districts will seek bond issues, plant facilities levies or supplemental levies on March 14. Idaho Education News and Boise State Public Radio partnered to produce this series — Financing the Future — on how the statewide elections will affect students, communities and taxpayers.

The legacy of school bonds in Boise

Financing the Future continued: The Boise School District last passed a bond more than a decade ago. This year’s request to voters is more ambitious but necessary, according to trustees.

The bond issue ‘supermajority:’ a debate as old as Idaho

Financing the Future continued: Supporters say the two-thirds threshold protects property taxpayers. Opponents say a 60 percent barrier would create a more reasonable balance.

What it takes to pass a school bond and what it could mean to your taxes

Financing the Future continued: Take a closer look at the Boise District’s bond and why it could be a challenge to pass.

How a Boise career-technical school prepares students for jobs in high demand

Financing the Future continued: The Dennis Technical Education Center in Boise would like to expand its programs to include heating air-conditioning, electrical and plumbing.

A look at two Boise elementary schools embracing the wrecking ball

Financing the Future continued: The Boise School District is asking for patrons to pass a $172.5 million bond. Should it pass, six elementary schools are scheduled to be demolished, including Amity and Highlands.

Ybarra rural schools bill sails through committee

State superintendent Sherri Ybarra says the $300,000 pilot could stretch local education dollars. “Do we really want to send our rural districts back to the ballot box for more property taxes?”

Statehouse roundup, 3.1.17: Nate pushes for school gun safety courses

In other Statehouse news Wednesday, another tax credit bill for private schools emerges in the House.

Join us for Donuts and Democracy

Idaho Education News and the Boise Metro Chamber are hosting a panel discussion on Idaho public education, featuring elections and policy. The event is free. So are the donuts.