Back at the office after a brief hiatus due to illness, state superintendent Debbie Critchfield headed to the Statehouse early Wednesday morning to present on House Bill 267 — her $50 million plan to boost CTE programming across Idaho. The bill easily passed the committee, and awaits a hearing on the House floor.

Later, Critchfield was presented a $500 check by the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation — a result of the Steps for Schools initiative. Critchfield committed to the challenge — walking throughout the month of February — and averaged more than 5,000 steps a day.

The check will go to the Plummer-Worley Joint School District, and can be used for equipment, programs or projects that encourage active lifestyles among students.

She also held a meeting with the SDE executive team, and met with Rep. Julie Yamamoto, R-Caldwell, to conclude her Wednesday.