News

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

Budget committee outlines new hearing format

Nonpartisan budget analysts will play a greater role in JFAC’s daily budget hearings, with an eye toward increasing transparency.

State of the State address: Otter says Idaho is resurgent

On Monday, Gov. Butch Otter outlined a plan to increase public school funding by 6.4 percent next year.

Idaho Falls elementary employs ‘expeditionary’ approach

In the wake of losing 24 students and one of its most popular teachers, Sunnyside Elementary School in Idaho Falls is moving forward with a framework hinged on student expeditions.

Education news from around Idaho

This week’s brief highlights a $1.5 million grant awarded to the Mountain Home School District, art grants available for educators and students headed to the state Lego Robotics championships.

House speaker will ensure teacher raises come with accountability

Speaker Scott Bedke: “If (accountability) is not up and in place, then the career ladder has a problem.”

Otter announces higher education task force

Modeled after Idaho’s K-12 task force, Otter hopes the 28-member higher education task force will help Idaho improve its stagnant college completion rates.

Financial experts offer optimistic budget outlook

Revenue projections are critical because they establish the amount of money available for state programs — including public schools, the state’s largest annual expense.

Will school choice bills gain traction at the Statehouse?

Nationally, many school choice advocates believe they have momentum on their side. But Idaho’s political landscape isn’t quite so straightforward.

Idaho Falls opts to build a new high school

The district originally planned on upgrading both Idaho Falls and Skyline high schools. However, further cost analysis and research prompted the board to opt for a rebuild, while sticking with plans to upgrade Skyline.