IDAHO

Blaine, McKinstry strike settlement deal

Under terms of the deal, school district officials will pay their energy services company $665,000 for work that is completed, while the company will cover $800,000 in legal fees for the district.

Land Board rejects swaps for office space

The state wants to get out of the business of leasing cabin sites along Payette and Priest lakes. But state officials are balking at swapping these sites for office space in Idaho Falls and Nampa.

Mtn Home supports Idaho Core Standards

In other news, sophomores can take PSAT this week, space program accepting applications, Blaine County improves its website and Idaho Falls students become active in mayoral race.

Idaho selected to join a global partnership

Sixty-three schools from Idaho will join more than 900 other schools from nine other countries in an effort to transform education worldwide.

Andrus wins award, comes out punching

Idaho Voices for Children honored former Gov. Cecil Andrus as the nonprofit’s Children’s Champion on Friday. In accepting the award, Andrus called out lawmakers and state officials, urging them to be sincere in making education a priority.

Federal afterschool grants up for grabs

School districts, cities, community and faith-based groups and private corporations can apply for a share of Uncle Sam’s money. Applications are due Jan. 31.

Five schools miss pay plan deadline

The majority of districts and charters met the Oct. 1 deadline, and submitted a variety of plans that range from simple to complex. District leaders expect to receive their share of the $21 million in February.

The superintendent’s race that isn’t … so far

In 13 months, Idaho voters will elect a superintendent of public instruction. To say the least, the campaign is fluid.

McCall’s student-led iPad rollout

Students take a lead role in bringing tablets into the classroom.

Requiring P.E. to graduate gains support

Physical education teachers and the American Heart Association are backing a proposal to make P.E. a graduation requirement. The State Board will take action on the proposal later this year.