IDAHO
Analysis: Otter’s budget balancing act
In his budget proposal, Gov. Butch Otter suggests some money for education task force proposals — but he also strikes a series of conservative chords.
Otter outlines education spending plan
Although he backed the task force’s recommendations, Otter did not fund plans for a career ladder and provided no money for teacher raises.
Keep Common Core; replicate success stories
Idaho politicians get some education counsel from a pair of national speakers.
Education set to be defining issue of 2014
Gov. Otter and top legislators say education issues will be front and central during the session as lawmakers attempt to implement a set of 20 recommendations that have enjoyed widespread.
Experts offer positive economic outlook
Lawmakers charged with setting revenue projections to budget around heard from top economists and state officials. The meetings continue today at the Statehouse.
Up for grabs: $26 million for K-12 education
Because Idaho is not ready to set up a career ladder program, which was one of the task force recommendations, more money could be available to reverse cuts to school district operational budgets.
Prospects spotty for task force proposals
Some of the biggest ideas from Gov. Butch Otter’s education task force are works in progress — and probably won’t be wrapped up in a single legislative session.
Will legislators keep Common Core?
Opponents of the new standards face an uphill battle.
2014 Legislature — Education 101
Here is a quick primer for those of you new to the Legislature who are interested in learning more about the creation of education policy.
Idaho politics is a lot like college football
Both have key players with different responsibilities, game plans and supporters. Both also have winners and losers. Read our analysis of the upcoming season … or, in this case, session.