IDAHO

Next winter, Idaho will spend about $6 billion — but it’s pretty much carved up already

This week, state superintendent Debbie Critchfield and Idaho’s colleges and universities turned in no-frills budget requests for 2027-28. There will still be budget debates next legislative session — just on the margins.

Rolling out the red carpet: Clearwater Valley, Grangeville start school as new districts

Leaders say the first days went smoothly, but behind the scenes they are still sorting out what, they hope, are the last finance and technology issues.

An English-only mandate for Head Start could make it harder for kids to learn English

It might seem counterintuitive, but supporting a child’s home language makes learning English easier and faster, research shows.

‘Almost too good to be true’: West Ada, Middleton break ground on new schools without local measures

See how the two Treasure Valley districts bankrolled projects without raising property taxes.

Idaho U.S. Senate candidate David Roth removes name from general election ballot 

Roth cited lack of support from the Idaho Democratic Party

Web of intrigue: U of I researchers find a new, Idaho-centric species of spider

The newly discovered arachnid — dubbed Hexura vandal, in tribute to the U of I — appears to be confined to moist, coniferous forest in north-central Idaho.

Prosecutor: No update on Lakeland open meeting complaint

EdNews filed the complaint last month after trustees voted on an “Item E” following a July 29 executive session. The item was not listed as an action item, and no details were posted.

Andy Hawes wins Boise school board election

He previously served as a trustee from 2021 to 2023.

High-needs program faces spending reduction, as Critchfield focuses on K-12 funding formula

The 2026 Legislature approved $5 million for the new special education fund, state superintendent Debbie Critchfield’s top priority for the session. But Critchfield is seeking only $1.7 million for Year Two.

A mom, a silversmith, a nurse: Three charter schools prepare students for different paths

One school prepares future American citizens, another exposes students to the arts and another trains students for trades.