Voices

Educators, community members and students share their opinions about Idaho education.

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The importance of family storybook reading

Of all the experiences said to contribute to early literacy, shared book reading between families and children is the most valuable.

Here’s how much Idaho spends on public education

Each year, the number edges ever upward into the billions. And each year, the Legislature devotes almost half of the state’s entire budget to K-12.

Is the call for adequate teacher pay in Idaho being heard?

Increased investments in teacher pay from the last half-decade have been undeniable. But have they been enough?

The Legislature is violating its constitutional duty to Idaho’s public schools

We clearly have the money so let’s require the legislators to carry out their responsibility under the Idaho Constitution. Our kids’ education depends on it.

What the education freedom pledge really means

It’s time to identify and support candidates and legislators who understand the need to sustain and maintain a “general, uniform and thorough system of public, free common schools”.

Idaho’s infrastructure: Invest now

Public schools remain underfunded, leading to insufficient teacher pay, no ability to find housing, increased staff turnover, and crumbling facilities in both rural and urban areas.

K-12 and higher education task force recommendations are moving forward

“Much has happened over the last five years that is having a profound and positive effect on public education at all levels, despite the pandemic,” writes State Board of Education President Kurt Liebich.

New Year, old pandemic and priorities for a bright future

State superintendent Sherri Ybarra outlines her priorities ahead of the upcoming legislative session and next school year.

Teachers deserve our thanks for stepping up under the strain of COVID

“It is not news, but our teachers daily greet, educate, help and care for our nation’s treasure, our children,” writes House Education Committee chair Lance Clow.

What will become of Idaho’s rural schools?

If you live in one of Idaho’s many rural communities, and support your local schools, there are storm clouds on the horizon, three retired K-12 superintendents say.