IDAHO

New charter commission director stresses communication amid controversy

“There’s very little that can’t be resolved if we are talking and listening to each other,” said Jenn Thompson, who started her new job last week.

Education news from around Idaho

The State Department of Education wins money for suicide prevention, University of Idaho wins scholarship funds and trustees are set to convene in Boise next week.

Statehouse roundup, 2.13.20: Senate confirms Liebich’s appointment to State Board

In other news, two public charter school bills were introduced and the Senate passed a bill designed to help offset the cost of driver’s education.

Analysis: The view from House Education Island

Increasingly — and not surprisingly — the House Education Committee is following its own map on policy issues. But are there signs of common ground, even on the heated academic standards issue?

State Board debates education goals and accountability

Policymakers want to shift the focus to growth and progress, rather than proficiency levels.

Statehouse roundup, 2.12.20: Senate reinstates math, English and science standards

Senators voted to keep the hotly contested science standards and Common Core-aligned math and English standards on the books and in Idaho schools. Senators also reinstated teacher certification requirements. But the rules debate still isn’t over.

Transgender athletics bill clears its first legislative hurdle

Rep. Barbara Ehardt says her “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act” is designed to ban transgender women from participating in women’s sports. Wednesday’s first hearing on the bill split along partisan lines.

Ybarra warns against repealing academic standards

Ybarra said repealing standards without replacing them jeopardizes $250 million in annual federal funding. The Senate Education Committee could decide their fate today.