Kevin Richert

Senior reporter and blogger Kevin Richert specializes in education politics and education policy. He has more than 35 years of experience in Idaho journalism. He is a frequent guest on "Idaho Reports" on Idaho Public Television and "Idaho Matters" on Boise State Public Radio. He can be reached at krichert@idahoednews.org

In Nevada, a snow-day policy collapses under an avalanche of opposition

The Reno, Nev.-based Washoe County School District adopted a “digital snow day” policy, requiring students to work online when the weather turned bad.

Statehouse roundup, 3.5.19: JFAC approves $7 million scholarship boost; House passes school budgets

In other news from the Statehouse, the House easily and quickly passes the seven public school budget bills.

Across 47 school districts, a $485 million election day approaches

From Boundary County to Fremont County, March 12 will be decision day for school patrons. See what’s on the ballot in your corner of Idaho.

Superintendent Ybarra’s schedule: March 4-8

A chili reception? Among other items on Ybarra’s schedule is a Monday chili cookoff and legislative open house.

Statehouse roundup, 3.1.19: On party-line vote, sex ed bill heads to House floor

In arguing for her opt-in bill, Rep. Barbara Ehardt said she was troubled by the tone of the opposition, which surfaced during a public hearing Tuesday. “Parents were pitted against the state.”

Idaho immunization rates drop — as opt-out numbers surge

Idaho’s immunization opt-out rates are at an all-time high — and that’s “concerning” to the head of the state’s immunization program. And the Legislature is making it easier for parents to opt out.

Independent report praises Idaho’s mastery pilot — with some qualifications

The pilot program has built a “solid framework” for mastery-based learning, according to researchers with Education Northwest in Portland, Ore. Mastery is one of state superintendent Sherri Ybarra’s top legislative priorities.

Five finalists named in University of Idaho president’s search

They will visit the U of I’s Moscow campus and Boise Center next week.

Statehouse roundup, 2.26.19: Guns-in-schools bill introduced

In other news from a busy Tuesday at the Statehouse, a two-year plan to raise minimum teacher salaries sails through the House, and budget-writers carve up a spending plan for Idaho higher education.

Statehouse roundup, 2.25.19: Advanced opportunities program could grow further

In other news, the House passes a bill to require schools and day-care centers to pass on immunization opt-out information.