Kevin’s blog

Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.

Idaho Center transfer on hold until at least December

A divided Nampa City Council has scheduled a public hearing on the controversial transfer, and the College of Western Idaho is in a holding pattern.

Judge hears arguments in Oneida funding lawsuit

The Oneida School District says a 2024 state law took away at least $7.8 million that the district expected to put toward a $29 million elementary school project. The state’s attorneys want the case dismissed.

A new president gets the job at Utah State — entirely behind closed doors

A new law allows Utah officials to conduct presidential searches entirely behind closed doors. In Idaho, State Board of Education officials have lamented a law requiring them to release a list of five finalists.

BYU-Idaho reports largest fall class in school history

On-campus fall enrollment sits at 24,450, a 6.7% increase, Brigham Young University-Idaho said in a recent news release.

Boise State marketing officer leaves for Vermont job

Lauren Griswold is the second Boise State University administrator to follow Marlene Tromp to the University of Vermont.

Idaho federal judge keeps transgender athletics lawsuit open

Lindsay Hecox, a transgender Boise State University student, had asked the court to drop the case.

Vendor with spotty Idaho record lands $50 million Texas contract

New York-based Odyssey will help administer a new, $1 billion private school choice program in Texas. Odyssey came to Idaho in 2022 and left under a cloud.

What’s in a name … and a mascot? A LC State rebranding update

A campus committee will review the idea of a school mascot. Meanwhile, the 2026 Legislature will decide whether to grant university status to Lewis-Clark State College.

Blaylock, Hostetler draw GOP primary challenges

On Friday, Branden Durst announced he will challenge Sen. Camille Blaylock, R-Caldwell. Alexandra Caval will take on Rep. Clint Hostetler, R-Twin Falls.

Koehler named to State Board

Gov. Brad Little on Wednesday named the longtime educator to the State Board, subject to Senate confirmation.