Idaho Legislature

Fixing a law to fix crumbling schools

The state appears locked into spending $3.6 million to repair two school roofs in Salmon — but local officials say the school district might be better off closing one of the schools entirely. The Legislature may be asked to step in.

Lawmakers wrestle with evaluation rules

What’s the best way to evaluate principals and teachers? On both sides of the rotunda, lawmakers punted on that question Thursday.

Ward-Engelking appointed to Senate

Ward-Engelking, a Democrat from Boise, has experience on the House Education Committee. She was at the top of the Democrats three-person list to succeed Durst, who stepped down Dec. 1

Dems recommend Durst’s successor

Democrats nominated Rep. Janie Ward-Engelking, Lawrence Crowley and Beth Oppenheimer to fill lone Senate seat vacated by Branden Durst.

Common Core: Is a battle brewing?

Some legislators may well take a run at derailing the Idaho Core Standards next session. But a revolt might not find any traction in the Statehouse’s education committees.

An education committee revolving door?

With Branden Durst leaving the Senate, will Boise Democratic Rep. Janie Ward-Engelking get his spot in the Senate, and on the Senate Education Committee?

Senate hopes to replace Durst quickly

Top members of the Senate said it is important to have a replacement for outgoing Sen. Branden Durst confirmed before the session begins Jan. 6.

Durst resigning from Senate

Sen. Branden Durst has been splitting his time between his Boise legislative district and the Seattle area, where his wife works as a teacher. Local Democrats will now look for a successor.

Lawmakers study K-12 budget scenarios

Two themes emerged as key legislators met in Boise Friday. Money will be tight, for public schools and other agencies. And lawmakers want to make the 2014 session as short as possible.