Education Influencers
Thousands of people influence Idaho education, from the way $2 billion of taxpayer money are spent annually to how 307,000 children are educated. These influencers serve in a variety of roles.
This year, we’re profiling education influencers so you can learn more about those who impact your money and your children’s future.
Refusing to bend, the Human Rights Educator of the Year will retire early
Daisy Rain Martin is seeking refuge from legislation and policy that could force her to compromise her values.
Retired teacher takes over House Education Committee
Rep. Julie Yamamoto says she wants to create a collaborative environment in her committee as the members take up some of the most divisive issues in Idaho education, such as school choice.
‘A very interesting year ahead of us:’ Lent steps in as Senate Education chair
The key is keeping the infighting and ideological battles to a minimum, said Sen. Dave Lent, R-Idaho Falls, who brings a diverse resume to one of the most crucial assignments at the Statehouse.
Despite retirement, Bauscher’s influence in education lives on
Rich Bauscher, who was once the youngest superintendent in Idaho, still refuses to call it quits on the eve of his 70th birthday.
80-year-old war veteran takes on the Idaho Freedom Foundation
It’s a battle Jim Jones believes is critical to preserving education and democracy in Idaho.
West Ada’s new superintendent wants to make Idaho’s largest district nationally competitive
“I envision this day when people are calling our school district and saying, ‘Hey, what are you guys doing and can we come visit and see the amazing things that are going on.'” said Derek Bub.
Nampa’s outspoken trustee: ‘I just don’t see confrontation as a bad thing’
Kim Rost has influenced education policy in one of Idaho’s largest districts by living up to her nickname, Spicy K.
Terry Ryan transformed Idaho education. He’s not done yet.
The controversial out-of-stater has influenced the addition of 12,000 public charter seats in Idaho. He plans to add thousands more, causing a disruption to traditional schools.
New State Board president aims to draw Idaho’s leaders back into consensus over education priorities
“If we don’t have alignment with the Legislature on what’s important, and they don’t support it and fund it, we’re not going to get anything done,” said Kurt Liebich.
Her passion for politics is rooted in the Boy Scouts oath
Halli Stone has long voiced her opposition to things like abortion and the Equal Rights Amendment. Today her fight is against bonds and levies for her children’s schools. She’s winning.