2014 Legislature
Boise chamber touts pre-K pilot
The Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce supports a bill to establish a three-year pre-K pilot program — a proposal that has been mired in a House committee for six weeks.
Education news roundup: Tuesday, Feb. 25
House Education Committee members get a glimpse of a new tool designed to track the use of technology in the schools. Meanwhile, budget-writers approve a $512,900 funding boost for ag programs.
Priorities in the broadband budget debate
Do lawmakers want to keep the current broadband system in place, and the current contract on the books? Or do they want to take a step back and look at other options?
JFAC budgets $6.6 million for broadband
But a larger battle could be looming over funding the Idaho Education Network project in 2014-15. “Stay tuned,” said Sen. Dean Cameron, co-chairman of the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee.
Weekly education news from the Statehouse
Catch up on all the legislative action for the week — from teacher leadership awards and strategic planning to ag programs and P.E. rules.
No progress, yet, on broadband budget
Lawmakers and the Otter administration are trying to sort out the $14.45 million Idaho Education Network budget puzzle. A meeting Thursday did not yield a consensus.
Education news roundup: Tuesday, Feb. 18
Rep. Wendy Horman has drafted a bill designed to satisfy education task force recommendations for strategic planning for school districts, and training for administrators and school boards.
JFAC public hearing, 2.14.14, Storified
The Legislature’s powerful Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee heard from dozens of Idahoans Friday — and education funding issues figured prominently in the conversation, Here’s a rundown.
Romance-challenged board? (UPDATED)
If there is love in the hearts of State Board of Education members, it was on hold — at least until after a 4 p.m. conference call Friday.
Teacher ‘premium’ bill makes its debut
The $15.9 million proposal is seen as a down payment on a $253 million teacher career salary ladder. But Gov. Butch Otter has recommended no pay raises for teachers.