News

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

Four bidders beat WiFi contractor’s price

Education Networks of America received a controversial state high school WiFi contract — even though four bids came in at a lower price. However, ENA received high marks in two other categories: technology and experience.

Don’t always judge a school by its score

Idaho ranks schools with an elaborate points-and-star system. But the schools with the most points aren’t necessarily the state’s highest-performing schools.

CBS special features Kuna teacher

“Teach”, a documentary from Academy Award winner Davis Guggenheim, will air next month. It follows the experiences of Shelby Harris and her classroom for a year.

Star ratings: Charters show improvement

By many metrics, Idaho charter schools fared well in the latest round of school “star ratings.” But at the low end of the scale, several charter schools continue to struggle.

Idaho charter group names new president

Terry Ryan comes to the Idaho Charter School Network from Ohio, where he worked with a network of 11 charter schools serving about 2,700 students.

Common Core author offers inside look

Ohio State’s Bradford Findell said new standards are designed to test students key understanding of subjects and push them to develop reasoning skills and discuss how they arrived at an answer.

Summer assignment: Prep for Common Core

From Nampa, here’s a look at the obstacles, and expectations.

About 200 schools may opt for WiFi service

On Friday, Superintendent Tom Luna’s office touted the statewide reach of the new WiFi service. But the exact number of schools that will receive WiFi under a controversial state contract is not yet clear.

Schools’ star ratings show improvement

Ninety-one schools — nearly 15 percent of the state’s schools — received the highest possible ranking in Idaho’s star ratings, announced Thursday. That’s an increase from 78 five-star schools a year earlier.

Little backs local control, dual credit programs

Idaho’s lieutenant governor told educators how they can contribute to economic development and helped IASA officials recognize the state’s top administrators, including Superintendent of the Year Wiley Dobbs of Twin Falls.