News

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

Barber’s Blaine contract worth $680,000

The former Blaine superintendent had nearly three years remaining on his contract when he left the district last week.

Lawmakers start scrutinizing Luna budget

Senate Education Committee Chairman John Goedde and House Education Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt praised Tom Luna for listening to the task force. However, funding could be the limiting factor during the 2014 session.

Seeking a balance on school security

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna wants to pump more state money into school security. But the state is looking to find a delicate balance: plugging holes in local systems, while relying on local, on-the-ground expertise.

Interim committee takes up labor laws

Although no action was taken, members reviewed data and testimony in hopes of crafting legislation during the 2014 session.

Luna calls for 5.9 percent budget increase

Luna’s FY15 budget calls for increasing spending by more than $77 million next year, with $42.5 million of that devoted to a whole new system for paying teachers.

Career ladder would raise new teacher pay

Starting teacher pay would increase to $33,000 next year, and reach $40,000 in six years if career ladder plan is fully implemented.

Luna budget holds line on technology

The state superintendent’s 2014-15 budget proposal includes $13.4 million for technology programs — which is identical to 2013-14 spending.

Luna wants to create six advisory committees

A $300,000 budget request would fund the expenses of these committees, including a student committee, that will study the overhaul of teacher pay, school funding and technology implementation.