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 on the clock to roll out $20 million in grants

The one-time grant dollars can cover secure entryways, new camera systems and other one-time upgrades. But schools can’t use the money to hire guards or SROs.

Judge stands behind her ruling to reinstate NIC president

The trustees’ ongoing power struggle over President Nick Swayne’s contract is at the heart of an accreditation fight at North Idaho College.

In depth: The U of I comes to the close of a tragic, turbulent school year

On Nov. 13, the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students became a semester’s narrative, a community’s tragedy and a university’s crisis. Six months later, the healing continues.

UPDATED: Little reacts to Empowering Parents program review

The microgrant program is a big piece of Gov. Brad Little’s education agenda. The State Board of Education is reviewing the program, amid questions about whether some families have used the taxpayer-funded grants to pay for clothes, TVs, smart watches and household cleaning supplies.

Arts grants demand exceeds $1 million state budget

All told, 72 rural districts and charters requested $1,020,554, the State Board of Education said Tuesday.

Empowering Parents panel to take shape this month

The State Board of Education is reviewing the Empowering Parents progam, amidst reports that some of the education grants were spent on clothes, TVs, smart watches and household cleaning supplies.

Amid red flags, state launches Empowering Parents grants review

Some of the federally funded grants may have been used to cover ineligible purchases — such as clothes, TVs, smart watches or household cleaning items. And it’s not clear whether the state can get its money back.

More legal maneuvering at NIC

North Idaho College has hired a new lawyer — just one day after the college released a long-awaited investigative report from its soon-to-be former attorney.

Analysis: To solve a student mental health crisis, we need to get serious about measuring it

The best anyone can do is cobble together some mismatched statistics that suggest the problem is getting worse — and quickly.

Projects approved for Boise State and Idaho State

In other news, the State Board of Education shakes up its leadership team.