News

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

Senior projects: a burden with benefits

Every student in Idaho must complete a senior project before they can graduate. It requires at least 40 hours of work and can put a strain on a student’s senior year. The process is designed to help students solve real-world problems or investigate their interests.

Districts update websites to comply with state law

In order to follow Idaho codes created to promote transparency, district officials asked for help and guidance from other districts, associations and Idaho Education News.

Children’s organization honors longtime education advocate

Idaho Voices for Children named Bev Harad its Children’s Champion of 2015. Harad has been a dedicated volunteer, launching programs and lobbying efforts to support kids and education. She received two standing ovations on Friday from many of the Treasure Valley’s education, political and business leaders.

New Plymouth principal’s journey to Gov. Otter’s office and back

After stops in Alaska, the Idaho Legislature and Gov. Butch Otter’s office, Clete Edmunson tackles his next challenge as New Plymouth High School’s new principal.

Large-district superintendents negotiate contracts with fringe benefits

As the contract for West Ada superintendent Linda Clark comes under fire by her own trustees, Idaho Education News examined 10 contracts and found perks commonly awarded in a variety of areas from cars to cell phones to added life insurance policies.

Lewiston to study options for 87-year-old high school

To build or remodel? That is the question since taxpayers have twice voted against bonds to pay for a new high school. Trustees now are considering the costs of remodeling the existing campus.

State’s broadband costs fall $5 million below projections

One big reason for the savings: School districts have tapped into federal funds that were cut off during the Idaho Education Network contract dispute.

Commerce director tells lawmakers not to cut taxes

Outgoing Idaho Department of Commerce Director Jeff Sayer instead urges lawmakers on tax group to invest in workforce pipeline, infrastructure and education.

West Ada school needs your help to win $100,000

Local votes could help Lowell Scott Middle School students and staff build an outdoor learning center.

Vendor: School broadband savings should hold

Monday’s hearing was partly a postmortem from the Idaho Education Network contract fiasco, as a procession of vendors presented options to the state.