Kevin Richert's analysis
Voters learn things at debates. Maybe that’s why many incumbents dodge them.
Co-sponsored by EdNews, Tuesday’s debate between GOP state superintendent Debbie Critchfield and Democratic challenger Becky Sundin Mitchell was an election-year outlier. And that’s the problem.
K-12 education
Memorial service for Terry Gilbert slated for Sunday
Boise School District
Boise considers school closures amid declining enrollment
Higher Education
TVCC opens health profession facility
Medical education
Idaho State lab expansion project to begin this fall
Contract negotiations
Blaine County imposes contract terms after deadlock with teachers’ union
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The EdNews Show Ep. 4: State superintendent debate pregame
Republican incumbent Debbie Critchfield and Democrat challenger Becky Sundin Mitchell will face off in a debate next week in the race for Idaho superintendent of public instruction.
Special Series
The Idaho School Benefit Trust ran out of money in 2026 — leaving nearly 100 districts and charters to confront a health insurance crisis that had been building for years.
The trust’s fund balance fell from $22.5 million in 2021 to $2.1 million in just four years. Manager Debbie Hainke notified members of a shortfall in July but has declined to provide members or EdNews with financial documents.
EdNews has tracked the trust’s unraveling through public records, interviews and reporting. Our continuing coverage will investigate the ultimate cost to teachers and taxpayers.
Opinion
Spelling it Out
This series aims to break down complex terms, ideas, and jargon in education and become a resource for taxpayers, educators, parents, and students.