IDAHO
Nampa union prevails in furlough dispute
The district’s superintendent had no authority to ask individual teachers to take unpaid furlough days, a judge ruled Friday. However, it’s unclear whether the ruling will add to the Nampa district’s financial woes.
State Board advances cursive rule
Under a new rule, which was carried in the Legislature by Rep. Linden Bateman, cursive handwriting will be taught in elementary schools. Meanwhile, Idahoans will have a chance to weigh in on a proposed physical education requirement.
Technology audits offered to Leads schools
A team of national experts developed a sophisticated online software program that gathers and analyzes school data to help educators make better decision about teaching and learning.
Labrador won’t run for governor
Labrador says he considered a run but said he hasn’t finished the work his supporters sent him to do in Congress.
Idaho Leads talks up Idaho Core
Nearly 200 educators and school board members from around the state joined for a rigorous day of learning and networking hosted by the Idaho Leads project, a Boise State professional development team.
A seat at the table gives Idaho SBAC influence
As an SBAC governing state, Idaho is given the chance to shape and develop the new high-stakes tests that will be tied to accountability during the 2014-2015 school year.
Task Force sub group outlines plans
Meridian Superintendent Linda Clark said restoring funding cuts should be the No. 1 priority. A plan being crafted for the full task force puts the price tag at $82.5 million over five years.
Lawmakers have WiFi contract questions
However, two key lawmakers aren’t questioning the decision to pay more to the state’s WiFi contractor. “If decisions were made purely on price, we would all be driving Yugos,” said House Education Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt.
Public lands panel won’t report until 2015
Rep. Stephen Hartgen, who is recovering from open-heart surgery, was replaced on committee by first-term Rep. Terry Gestrin.
WiFi deal: Low bidder raises questions
Tek-Hut’s Nate Bondelid said he is used to the most inexpensive bid being given priority in public projects. The president of the Twin Falls company also wondered why his firm received two different scores in one category and was docked points in another.