coronavirus

Our newsroom is determined to provide you with the most recent and relevant information available on how the coronavirus is impacting our schools, communities and state. We will try daily to get updates and answers from state and school leaders.

As a public awareness service, we want to keep you informed so you can be prepared. Please tell us how we can help you. What questions do you have? Let us know what’s happening in your schools and community. email us at: [email protected].

Legislative working group calls for special session to address liability issues

Only Gov. Brad Little can call a special session of the Legislature. He’s left the door open but hasn’t acted yet.

Kuna implements blended-learning model

The school district will start the year with a mix of in-person and remote instruction, Superintendent Wendy Johnson told parents Wednesday.

Boise superintendent: Face-to-face classes are ‘a bit more unlikely’

Coby Dennis offered the sobering assessment during a Wednesday conference call, organized by the State Board of Education. Classes — in-person or online — will begin Aug. 17.

Ada, Boise, Elmore and Valley counties should not expect to see schools in lowest risk category

Central District Health does not expect its local schools to be at “Category 1” coronavirus risk at any point during the upcoming school year.

State department gearing up for full round of tests

The SDE’s 2020-2021 assessment calendar includes testing dates for Idaho’s early-reading exam and the federally mandated Idaho Standards Achievement Tests.

Ada County mask mandate will apply to schools

The Central District Health order will extend to public schools, including the West Ada and Boise districts, Boise State University and the College of Western Idaho’s Ada County campus.

Lawmakers put liability issue on a fast track

Schools could face legal exposure while dealing with myriad health risks — from maintaining social distancing to making sure young children wear a face mask, instead of treating it like a slingshot.

This week’s coronavirus trendline (7.24.20 edition)

Idaho reported its deadliest week in the coronavirus outbreak, but the state’s rapid increase in new cases showed some signs of leveling.

State OK’s $31 million in school coronavirus aid

The bulk of the money, $21 million, will covers the cost of tests for teachers and school staff. The remaining $10 million will go toward face masks, gloves, hand sanitizer and plexiglass shields for schools.