2017 Idaho Legislature

Auditors: Most special education spending is not tied to need

Idaho spent $294 million on special education in 2014-15 — with only a sliver of the programs tied directly to the needs of its 29,700 special education students.

At the Statehouse next week, focus turns to K-12 funding issues

Two legislative committees will convene next week to take a closer look at how Idaho funds its schools.

GOP stays the course in leadership elections

On Thursday, GOP leadership will pick a new chair for the House Education Committee — and fill other committee assignments.

Otter hints at tough debates over K-12 funding, tax cuts

The governor restated his support for Idaho’s five-year plan to boost teacher salaries. However, he said, “This is going to be the toughest year.”

State Board: High school students shouldn’t be required to pass ISAT

There’s nothing new about this idea; this year’s seniors aren’t required to pass the standardized test either. Legislators will have the final word on making this language permanent.

Democrats outspent Republicans in runup to legislative elections

Democrats tried to protect seats in competitive legislative districts, and make perhaps make inroads in battleground districts. Instead, Democrats lost four seats on Nov. 8.

State’s projected budget surplus continues to swell

The projected $132.5 million surplus could set the stage for a lengthy legislative debate over priorities — such as K-12 spending or tax cuts.

Analysis: What a Trump presidency might mean for K-12

The president-elect endorses school vouchers and condemns Common Core. But these positions won’t necessarily find traction, even in a GOP-dominated Statehouse.