IDAHO

School elections changes are dead for 2016

Senators killed a bill to move school trustee races to the November elections — and a second bill to elect trustees across an entire school district.

Bible-in-schools bill will get a rewrite

The possible amendments could address other religious texts — and work around the use of the Bible in science classes.

JFAC drafting 7.4 percent K-12 budget increase

The budget committee will set the 2016-17 public school budget Monday. The bottom line could match the 2015-16 funding increase, but fall slightly below the recommendations of Gov. Butch Otter and superintendent Sherri Ybarra.

Charter contracts: a short bill, a heated debate

Charter school officials are split on a bill to rewrite the teacher contract process. Three powerful education groups oppose the idea.

Budget-writers boost Idaho scholarship program

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee backed Gov. Butch Otter’s proposed $5 million increase in Idaho’s Opportunity Scholarship.

Marathon literacy debate dominates House floor session

Literacy bill passes 67-1 after several lawmakers question whether the bill would create new state expenses, lead to students being reclassified or promote kindergarten.

Sayles, Dean and Joki will not resign from West Ada board

The three board members all said the will stand for a May 17 recall election. They all said they have heard from supporters who encouraged them to stay.

Eclipsed? Sunshine law expansion killed

Sen. Mary Souza’s bill would have required all school board candidates to file campaign disclosure reports.

New literacy bill receives widespread early support

New literacy proposal still includes supplemental reading instruction for K-3 students, but it adds goal-setting and deadline provisions the committee favored.