IDAHO
Legislative roundup, 2.19.21: Ybarra’s in-person learning bill sidetracked
Legislators held the bill until Feb. 25.
Boise trustees vote to return to classrooms full time
Elementary students in Boise will start on March 9, while secondary students will get back in classroom to start the fourth quarter.
State Board takes up debate on simplifying student fees
The State Board also made a move toward changing the timeframe for high school students to take standardized tests, and removing the college entrance exam as a high school graduation requirement.
Legislative roundup, 2.18.21: New bill would revive Strong Families grants
The bill would also create state scholarships for students who do not attend public schools.
Analysis: The day the 60 percent goal almost died
For 11 years, Idaho has said it wants 60 percent of its young adults to hold a college degree or professional certificate. Now, it looks like the State Board of Education wants to scrap the goal.
Tort claim prompted Marsh Valley trustees to pay off former superintendent
An email from the board chair to Idaho Education News explains the contractual payout. The board approved the payout in an open meeting but concealed its details from the public.
Parents share how isolation has affected their children
EdNews met with five parents this week to discuss the things their children have missed the most during school closures amid a pandemic.
For some charters, enrollment decreases pose an immediate budget challenge
By and large, charter school enrollment has grown during the pandemic. But some charter schools saw a sharp decrease in enrollment — and a hit on their budgets.
Winter state tournaments tip off with attendance limits
Crowd limits will lead to mostly-empty gyms. Games will be video and audio streamed.
Legislative roundup, 2.17.21: Clow pushes for money for virtual charters
The Idaho Virtual Academy and Inspire Connections charters have accommodated thousands of new students during the coronavirus pandemic. Without at least $6 million, these schools will have to cut staff and cap enrollment, House Education Committee Chairman Lance Clow said.
“You’re going to send parents scrambling again,” he said.