IDAHO

Revenue committee backs Otter’s forecast

An 18-member legislative committee agreed the economy is improving and forecast revenue growth for next year at 6.4 percent, backing the figure Otter built his budget around.

Business leader makes appeal for Idaho Core

Bob Lokken of Idaho Business for Education endorsed K-12’s new education standards at the Boise Metro Chamber’s annual legislative luncheon. The Chamber also endorsed the standards.

JFAC leaders push for state raises

Although Gov. Otter recommended no across-the-board raises for employees, key legislators are exploring opportunities to offer workers a boost in light of low earnings reports.

New lawmaker headed to Ed Committee

Ilana Rubel, a Boise attorney appointed to the House Wednesday, will likely end up taking one of the Democrats’ three spots on the House Education Committee.

Budget writers examine school funding, pay

JFAC members signal the issue of pay and raises has not been decided yet, while some lawmakers are gearing up to define how operations funding can be spent as the state seeks to reverse recession-era budget cuts.

Idaho Core showdown looms at Statehouse

On Jan. 22, experts on both sides of the Idaho Core Standards issue will answer citizens’ questions about the standards and help lawmakers dispel myths.

Jones running for state superintendent

Jana Jones, an Idaho Falls Democrat, previously ran for superintendent of public instruction in 2006, losing a close race to Tom Luna.

Speaker: students should drive their learning

Education author Michael Horn spoke at the monthly ED Sessions 2.0 luncheon about how technology and “disruptive innovation” can transform education.

Democrats: Otter shortchanges schools

Legislative Democrats also say they well soon introduce four bills modeled after recommendations from Gov. Butch Otter’s education task force.

Teacher pay overlooked in governor’s budget

Superintendent Tom Luna and the Idaho Education Association agree that Otter should have put money into teacher compensation. Luna vows to “fight” to ensure teachers get more money.