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

Nampa union prevails in furlough dispute

The district’s superintendent had no authority to ask individual teachers to take unpaid furlough days, a judge ruled Friday. However, it’s unclear whether the ruling will add to the Nampa district’s financial woes.

Sen. Cameron goes quiet on WiFi controversy

But the powerful co-chairman of the Legislature’ budget-writing committee, says he still has “strong feelings” about the controversial school WiFi contract.

Lawmakers have WiFi contract questions

However, two key lawmakers aren’t questioning the decision to pay more to the state’s WiFi contractor. “If decisions were made purely on price, we would all be driving Yugos,” said House Education Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt.

Proposed school cell tower on hold

The Meridian School District allows cell phone towers on its campuses — but the latest proposed tower has run into some static.

WiFi deal: Several bidders had Idaho ties

The decision on a controversial WiFi contract was supposed to come down to price, technology and experience. But several bidders were hardly shy about playing up their Idaho connections.

WiFi deal: How ENA got the contract

How did Education Networks of America win a multiyear high school WiFi installation contract — even though four bidders beat the company’s price? Let’s take a deeper dive into the scoring process, and the state’s documentation.

Going Greek: Crapo touts yogurt pilot project

Twin Falls-based Chobani will provide Greek yogurt to school cafeterias in four states this fall — and supporters hope the pilot project will go national.

Four bidders beat WiFi contractor’s price

Education Networks of America received a controversial state high school WiFi contract — even though four bids came in at a lower price. However, ENA received high marks in two other categories: technology and experience.

Otter names lobbyist as campaign manager

In another sign that he will seek a third term in 2014, Gov. Butch Otter has named an industry lobbyist to manage his (as yet unannounced) re-election campaign.

Star ratings: Charters show improvement

By many metrics, Idaho charter schools fared well in the latest round of school “star ratings.” But at the low end of the scale, several charter schools continue to struggle.