Gov. Butch Otter
FINAL elections filings (3.14.14, 6:36 p.m.)
For Idaho political junkies, March Madness is done and the candidate brackets are filled. Take a look at who’s running for what.
Former ENA staffer on Otter’s campaign
In September, Martin Bilbao left Education Networks of America, a contractor that holds contentious school broadband and WiFi contracts. Bilbao joined Gov. Butch Otter’s campaign staff in October.
Goedde wants to drop WiFi deal (UPDATED)
Sen. John Goedde would like the state to give the school districts $2.25 million to pursue WiFi hookups. His move sets up a potential showdown with State Superintendent Tom Luna — and perhaps Gov. Butch Otter.
Teacher ‘premium’ bill makes its debut
The $15.9 million proposal is seen as a down payment on a $253 million teacher career salary ladder. But Gov. Butch Otter has recommended no pay raises for teachers.
Otter defends broadband project (w/VIDEO)
Gov. Butch Otter also speaks out against across-the-board raises for teachers and state employees — and discusses his plans for funding recommendations from his education reform task force.
Butch Otter meets the press, Storified
Gov. Butch Otter fields questions about a troubled Idaho school broadband project, pay raises — and much more. Here’s a rundown.
JFAC cautious about broadband request
The Legislature’s budget-writers have no timetable for deciding whether to put $14.45 million into Idaho’s high school broadband system. First, they want more answers about the system’s budget crunch.
Freedom Foundation writes a budget
The Idaho Freedom Foundation’s blueprint would put no money into recommendations from Gov. Butch Otter’s education reform task force — even though the group’s own survey of teachers found strong support for the recommendations.
Analysis: Luna’s budget, Version 2.0
More money to help school districts still reeling from the recession. Money for the teacher salary base. Superintendent Tom Luna’s 2014-15 budget rewrite contains two significant changes, perhaps reflecting the political realities of the moment.
Otter fundraising exceeds $900,000
In 2013, Gov. Butch Otter has raised more than $901,000 for his expected run for a third term in office. Statewide candidates must file their 2013 fundraising reports by Jan. 31.