IDAHO

Valley districts seek $43.1 million in levies

In several cases, the districts are seeking to renew existing supplemental levies. In Meridian, for example, voters will decide whether to keep a two-year, $28 million levy on the books.

Thayn: Find alternative to SBAC test

The multistate exam is geared to the new Idaho Core Standards. The questions about the exam come as the 2014 Legislature could be poised to take a second look at the standards themselves.

Senate committee punts on P.E. rule

The State Department of Education rule, ramping up physical education requirements, is already facing opposition in the House.

Mark your calendar for these key dates

These events are key to deciding policy and funding for K-12 public education. In other news, Idaho Business for Education names a new vice president and launches a campaign with the State Department in support of Idaho Core Standards.

P.E. rule could get a makeover

The House subcommittee rejected a rule that would require 60 minutes of P.E. a week in grade school, and 200 minutes bi-weekly in middle school. Lawmakers are also skeptical of a rule to ramp up academic requirements for English teachers.

Supporters unveil pre-K pilot proposal

‘The case for preschool education is compelling,” said Rep. Hy Kloc, the bill’s sponsor.

Fixing a law to fix crumbling schools

The state appears locked into spending $3.6 million to repair two school roofs in Salmon — but local officials say the school district might be better off closing one of the schools entirely. The Legislature may be asked to step in.

Panel recommends raises for state employees

A committee went against Gov. Butch Otter, recommending state employees receive a 1 percent raise and a 1 percent bonus. The move wouldn’t affect teacher pay, but a key legislator said he will fight for a similar boost for teachers.

Lawmakers take first run at P.E. rules

Should the state add muscle to its physical education requirements? On Friday, district education officials said the idea could undermine local control.