IDAHO
ISU plans to offer full-time in-person instruction this fall
Coronavirus protocols will remain in effect “as long as circumstances require,” such as mask mandates and contact tracing.
Congress approves massive and historic infusion of funds for schools
The new money comes to nearly $2,500 per student, but high-poverty districts will see more. Some may find themselves flush with cash.
Legislative roundup, 3.10.21: House approves bill to withhold funding to schools closed during pandemic
“If you choose to remain closed to the students of Idaho, we have to provide them another option,” bill sponsor, Rep. Codi Galloway said.
School elections: McCall-Donnelly bond issue passes, Bonneville levies fail
Voters said yes to $224.3 million in ballot measures, but a smattering of levies failed.
Legislative roundup, 3.9.21: House approves scholarship, Strong Students grants bill
In other news, bills relating to vaccine exemption disclosures and state payments to parents that withdraw from remote schools are headed to the floor.
Guns-in-schools bill heads to the House floor
Rep. Chad Christensen’s bill would allow employees with an enhanced concealed weapons license to carry a gun on school grounds, without local trustees’ permission. The House State Affairs Committee approved the bill Tuesday along party lines.
Legislative roundup, 3.8.21: House passes optional union negotiations bill
If the bill passes, districts could implement salaries and benefits without having to negotiate or agree with teachers’ representatives.
Campus coronavirus roundup, 3.8.21: Cases rise sharply at U of I
University officials believe the outbreaks are tied to a handful of Greek houses and on-campus apartments.
Education news from around Idaho
Get details on grant money for nutrition programs, Idaho’s college savings program and new board members for the STEM Action Center Foundation.
Sex education opt-in bill advances to the Senate
The bill would require parents to sign permission slips for their children to discuss human sexuality, including topics like gender identity and sexual orientation.