IDAHO

Educators flock to hands-on STEM program

About 500 teachers are participating in the iSTEM summer institute, which is backed by the State Department, INL, universities and businesses.

Meridian moves to revoke North Star charter

Trustees were unswayed by a plan to ease North Star Charter School’s short-term financial crunch. North Star board chairman Jim Miller said he was “disheartened” by the School Board’s vote.

Study: Idaho stalls in several education areas

In areas from early education to reading and math scores, Idaho has stagnated in recent years, according to a new national study of childhood well-being.

Several large districts still at negotiating table

According to estimates, more than 50 percent of Idaho school districts have ratified collective bargaining agreements. But Nampa and Meridian are still at the bargaining table, while Bonneville has called in mediators.

Common Core: Idaho to road-test exams in 2014

As the state continues implementing Idaho Core Standards, Idaho will field-test new assessments tied to Common Core in 2014 — a year before the tests are used as an accountability measure.

Nampa teachers union budges on furloughs

The Nampa Education Association agrees to four unpaid furlough days for 2013-14. District officials are seeking 14 furlough days — and this is the centerpiece of their plan to erase a $3 million shortfall.

Does Idaho need more school counselors?

Idaho needs to hire more school counselors to help students make plans for life after graduation, according to legislative auditors. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna isn’t sure hiring counselors is the answer.

Nampa budget hearing sets stage for negotiations

Nampa school officials still forecast a shortfall of nearly $3 million for 2013-14 — which means more tough negotiations over teacher furloughs and reductions in employee benefits.

Federal lands panel awaits first meeting

Senate Majority Leader Bart Davis says the group of legislative “heavy hitters” is meeting with staff to carve out times for the committee’s first meeting.