Financing the Future

Why did so many bonds and levies pass so easily last week?

Last week’s school election results seem to square with what Idahoans had to say in a Boise State University survey in December.

Voters approve $695 million for schools

From a $172.5 million bond issue in Boise to a $90,000 supplemental levy in West Side, Tuesday was almost a clean sweep for Idaho schools. Only one ballot measure failed: a plant facilities levy in the Vallivue School District.

Idaho’s $715 million school election day

At least 46 of Idaho’s 115 school districts will seek bond issues, plant facilities levies or supplemental levies on March 14. Idaho Education News and Boise State Public Radio partnered to produce this series — Financing the Future — on how the statewide elections will affect students, communities and taxpayers.

The legacy of school bonds in Boise

Financing the Future continued: The Boise School District last passed a bond more than a decade ago. This year’s request to voters is more ambitious but necessary, according to trustees.

The bond issue ‘supermajority:’ a debate as old as Idaho

Financing the Future continued: Supporters say the two-thirds threshold protects property taxpayers. Opponents say a 60 percent barrier would create a more reasonable balance.

What it takes to pass a school bond and what it could mean to your taxes

Financing the Future continued: Take a closer look at the Boise District’s bond and why it could be a challenge to pass.

How a Boise career-technical school prepares students for jobs in high demand

Financing the Future continued: The Dennis Technical Education Center in Boise would like to expand its programs to include heating air-conditioning, electrical and plumbing.

A look at two Boise elementary schools embracing the wrecking ball

Financing the Future continued: The Boise School District is asking for patrons to pass a $172.5 million bond. Should it pass, six elementary schools are scheduled to be demolished, including Amity and Highlands.

Listen: A conversation on school bonds with Stan Olson

Financing the Future continued: The retired Boise school superintendent looks back on the 2006 bond issue — and talks about the politics of passing a bond issue election.

Join us for Donuts and Democracy

Idaho Education News and the Boise Metro Chamber are hosting a panel discussion on Idaho public education, featuring elections and policy. The event is free. So are the donuts.