News
The latest and breaking news and investigative reports about Idaho public education.
A seat at the table gives Idaho SBAC influence
As an SBAC governing state, Idaho is given the chance to shape and develop the new high-stakes tests that will be tied to accountability during the 2014-2015 school year.
Task Force sub group outlines plans
Meridian Superintendent Linda Clark said restoring funding cuts should be the No. 1 priority. A plan being crafted for the full task force puts the price tag at $82.5 million over five years.
Lawmakers have WiFi contract questions
However, two key lawmakers aren’t questioning the decision to pay more to the state’s WiFi contractor. “If decisions were made purely on price, we would all be driving Yugos,” said House Education Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt.
Public lands panel won’t report until 2015
Rep. Stephen Hartgen, who is recovering from open-heart surgery, was replaced on committee by first-term Rep. Terry Gestrin.
WiFi deal: Low bidder raises questions
Tek-Hut’s Nate Bondelid said he is used to the most inexpensive bid being given priority in public projects. The president of the Twin Falls company also wondered why his firm received two different scores in one category and was docked points in another.
WiFi deal: Several bidders had Idaho ties
The decision on a controversial WiFi contract was supposed to come down to price, technology and experience. But several bidders were hardly shy about playing up their Idaho connections.
Luna calls for protecting student data
The state superintendent sent a letter to key lawmakers asking for an executive order or a bill to ensure no personally identifiable data on parents or students be reported to the federal government.
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.