Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
ACLU urges Bible bill veto
The Bible-in-schools bill is in Gov. Butch Otter’s hands. And the governor isn’t saying what he’ll do with it. But the American Civil Liberties Union is urging Otter to veto the bill — and urging its membership to lobby the governor. A link on the ACLU’s website allows members to email Otter directly. Here’s an…
McMillan mum on votes against K-12 budgets
Three-term Rep. Shannon McMillan, R-Silverton, refused to explain her votes to the Lewiston Tribune.
Do-over: Caldwell trustees hire superintendent
Once again, Caldwell trustees offered their superintendent’s job to Shalene French, human resources director of the Bonneville School District.
T-minus two days? Legislature nears adjournment
Senate Majority Leader Bart Davis says the 2016 Legislature could wrap up its work Wednesday. And at this point, K-12 issues are all but settled.
A.G.’s office: Scholarships to religious colleges may violate Constitution
The March 3 opinion seems to support a main argument for amending the “Blaine Amendment,” which prohibits the use of state dollars to support sectarian schools.
Responding to Ed News’ complaint, Caldwell admits open meeting violation
Trustees denied holding an illegal vote in a closed meeting. But they will revisit Saturday’s decision to hire a new superintendent.
Ybarra tables her proposal to boost leadership premiums
The $16.7 million program has come under scrutiny at the Statehouse, so Sherri Ybarra has dropped a proposal to boost funding by another $1 million.
Idaho senators oppose new education secretary
The U.S. Senate voted to confirm new Education Secretary John King. The vote was 49-40.
After the filings: 10 legislative races to watch
Let’s sort through this year’s filings and focus on a few intriguing legislative races.
UPDATE: School funding group cancels first meeting
The working group’s first meeting was pre-empted by a House floor session.