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

State Board reins in campus DEI programs

Wednesday’s vote came after a turbulent month that thrust the State Board and Idaho’s higher ed community into the national DEI debate.

The four-day calendar is prevalent. And perhaps, politically untouchable

Four-day school advocates took on some of Idaho’s most powerful elected officials this year — and won. Politicians might not be in a hurry to take this issue on again in 2025.

Wendell district admits to open meetings violation

An agenda for the board’s Dec. 10 meeting did not list a time or location, as state law requires. The Twin Falls Times-News alerted the district to the violation.

UPDATED: Amid a surge of student comments, State Board reworks DEI policy

The new proposal walks back one section, which would have required colleges and universities to offer success centers “dedicated to all students.” A State Board vote is expected Wednesday.

Boise State: Proposed state crackdown drove student center closures

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to serving all students while seeking to be responsive to our governing board’s expectations,” administrators said in an email to Boise State students.

Analysis: In a staring match over DEI, the universities blink

The State Board of Education could vote next week to restrict campus DEI programs. Boise State and Idaho State have already reined themselves in — and the University of Idaho has a “rough idea” about how to comply.

UPDATED: Supreme Court sides with Labrador on Phoenix lawsuit

The ruling throws yet another wrench into the University of Idaho’s $685 million bid to acquire the University of Phoenix.

Speaking to state leaders, Little predicts ‘a lot of good things’ from the feds

Idaho’s governor said he is expecting a quantum leap in the federal permitting and regulatory process. “We know what the headwinds are if you’re fighting the establishment in Washington, D.C.”

‘Disheartening and heartbreaking:’ Boise State players speak out on forfeits

Boise State refused to take the court Friday for a Mountain West Conference tournament match with San José State; this third forfeit ended Boise State’s season.

Lawmakers get their first look at proposed DEI restrictions

Two Republican lawmakers said they like the idea of making sure all students have access to support programs. But a Democratic lawmaker said the State Board proposal could cause some students to leave Idaho.