Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
An unclaimed $6 million for Idaho schools
The Idaho School Boards Association is trying to drum up local interest in a federal program that provides interest-free loans to districts. Idaho schools are using a little more then $2 million from the program this year.
Two dueling meetings slated in Nampa
While a new-look Nampa School Board gets down to business Tuesday night, the local teachers’ union will hold a “tailgate party” to discuss stalled contract negotiations.
New evaluations remain on schedule
The federal government is giving Idaho and other states until 2016-17 to launch evaluation systems tied to classroom performance. But state superintendent Tom Luna wants Idaho to roll out its new system in 2013-14.
Declo bullying case not closed (UPDATED)
Fourth-grade teacher Summer Larsen allowed students to scribble on the faces of classmates who failed to reach reading goals. The incident drew national attention — and remains under investigation.
The governor’s race: Labrador isn’t talking
A few months ago, 1st Congressional District Rep. Raul Labrador said he’d make his political plans known by midyear. Now, he says an announcement is still a couple months away.
Union calls impasse ‘unnecessary and hostile’
Hours after the Meridian School Board issued teacher contracts and pulled the plug on 2013-14 negotiations, the head of the local teachers’ union called the move a ‘heavyhanded power play.’
Thumbnails of the tech grant recipients
Who is sharing in the state’s $3 million in pilot grants for technology? Here are thumbnail glances of the 11 grant recipients.
Meridian declares impasse, ends negotiations
The state’s largest school district puts an end to contract negotiations. The two sides made progress Friday, during their eighth bargaining session, but failed to reach a deal.
Nampa district, union spar over insurance issues
While Nampa contract negotiations remain deadlocked, say union officials, employees could face hefty fines under the federal health care law. District officials disagree.
Meridian spells out case against North Star
The charter school, one of Idaho’s largest, now has 30 days to make its case — and try to convince Meridian school officials that it has a sustainable long-term financial plan.