2017 Idaho Legislature

Statehouse roundup, 1.24.17: State Board questioned on evaluations training plan

Gov. Butch Otter and some key legislators have tied the fate of teacher pay raises to an improved teacher evaluations process. The training carries a $2.5 million price tag.

Statehouse roundup, 1.23.17: Adult scholarship bill unveiled

The $3 million program would provide scholarships for adults who have at least 24 college credits, but have been out of school for at least three years. The Senate rejected a similar bill in 2016.

Ybarra prepares for public school budget hearing

Ybarra’s budget presentation — set for Thursday morning — will be one of the highlights of education week at the Statehouse.

New growth numbers add $8.5 million to K-12 request

The unexpected growth adds about $4 million to the sticker price for the third year of the teacher career ladder.

Democrats unveil loan forgiveness bill for teachers

The scope of the loan forgiveness plan is unclear, and its legislative prospects are uncertain.

Cost of career ladder inches upward

It will cost $62 million to cover the third year of the teacher salary plan, an aide to Gov. Butch Otter said Monday. That’s up from the $58 million in Otter’s budget.

House floor fireworks: Five lawmakers defy leadership

The conservative lawmakers requested to be removed from House committees. The move came four days after leadership stripped Rep. Heather Scott of her committee assignments.

Analysis: Heather Scott’s demotion, and the legislative fallout

Last week, the controversial conservative signed on to a “Freedom Agenda” that took aim at Idaho Core Standards, standardized tests and the state’s ban on using public dollars to support religious schools.