News

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

Quarles named state’s chief deputy

State superintendent Tom Luna selected the former teacher, principal, superintendent and professor to assist with K-12 policy and practices.

First day is less than a month away

School leaders are back at work this week, attending local conferences in Boise. Find out when teachers and students in the Treasure Valley return to school starting in just two weeks.

Winning WiFi bidder touts Idaho, political ties

A centerpiece in the Education Networks of America bid was its work on the Idaho Education Network, a broadband connection project. But an undercurrent in the bid was the Nashville, Tenn.-based company’s connections in Idaho political circles.

New twists, turns in North Star case

Supporters of the charter school suggest the Meridian School District has a financial motivation to absorb another 965 students. District officials dismiss the suggestion.

Luna awards controversial WiFi deal

On Wednesday, state superintendent Tom Luna went forward on a multiyear contract to install WiFi service in Idaho high schools. Key lawmakers are questioning the deal, which could run 15 years; Luna says the longterm deal is routine and cost-effective.

Coalition forms to support Idaho Core

Find out which 18 powerful Idaho organizations have bonded in support of new K-12 teaching standards to be implemented this fall.

School star ratings appeals up sharply

In all, 159 schools are appealing their scores on the state’s centerpiece rating system — a one- to five-star scale measuring student performance and improvement. Scores will likely be released in August.

Common Core opponents plan forum

National educators who oppose Common Core State Standards will be in Boise on Saturday, July 27, to share their ideas and findings.

North Star charter fights possible shutdown

The Eagle charter school says it has “demonstrated fiscal soundness;” the Meridian School Board says the school is on shaky financial footing. The State Board of Education has been asked to settle the dispute.