IDAHO

Senate hopes to replace Durst quickly

Top members of the Senate said it is important to have a replacement for outgoing Sen. Branden Durst confirmed before the session begins Jan. 6.

Contractor: WiFi project on schedule

But only 30 or so schools have a finished system in place.

District offers free preschool to patrons

Garden Valley uses existing resources to compensate for a lack of state funding for preschool. in the three years since the program was brought back, officials are finding better prepared kindergarten students.

Survey says Blaine residents more informed

Nearly seven out of 10 Blaine County residents said they knew Idaho adopted the Common Core State Standards. According to surveys, Blaine families are more informed on the new academic standards in English and math than most Americans.

Monday morning news roundup

Celebrate American Education Week, apply for an Idaho Power grant, donate new books to Ada County children in need and celebrate the opening of a new school in Idaho Falls.

Summit looks at gaps in reading education

More than 400 teachers, business leaders and elected officials discussed ways to boost Idaho reading scores — and some of the political and social barriers to improvement.

Edmunds leaving State Board of Ed

Edmunds, who has served on the State Board of Education since 2008, will become the new director if the Idaho Department of Labor later this month.

Department of Ed official takes ISU job

Christina Linder, a seven-year state Education Department veteran, helped oversee teacher and administrator certification at the state level.

Task force responds to cost criticisms

Task force members Clark, Lanza and Westerberg said the near unanimous agreement with the recommendations represents a mandate to move toward implementation. They also turned the tables on skeptics by asking if officials have considered the cost of ignoring the proposals.

Garden Valley superintendent to retire

Randy Schrader, an award-winning superintendent and former standout Boise State University football player, will step down from his leadership role at the end of the school year. Staff credited him with restoring order and success in a district that endured recent turmoil.