Idaho EdNews Podcasts

Misha Smith, a sixth grade teacher at Boise’s Hawthorne Elementary, tells us about a science teacher’s professional development dream: going on an expedition to Patagonia.

In October, Boise State University unveiled “Unbridled,” its most ambitious fundraising campaign to date. Where would the $500 million go? And how does it fit into the big picture of Boise State’s budget? This week, Kevin Richert interviews Boise State President Marlene Tromp; Matthew Ewing, Boise State’s vice president for university advancement; and Jeremiah Shinn,…

Idaho’s 2024 teacher of the year, Trent Van Leuven, talks about the “Golden Age” of CTE education and how to recruit and retain rural teachers.

One week after school board elections across Idaho, trustees gathered in Boise for the annual Idaho School Boards Association convention. Kevin Richert caught up with three trustees — Nancy Gregory of Boise, Jason Knopp of Melba and Starr Olsen of Dietrich — to talk about the elections, the upcoming legislative session and the role of…

Last summer, Karen Lauritzen made national headlines for being named Idaho’s 2023 Teacher of the Year — then leaving it all behind. She says the political climate, public distrust, and close-mindedness drove her away. In this episode, she tells us more about her decision to leave the state and a profession she loved.

Kevin talks politics with BSU Political Science professor Stephanie Witt

In this episode, award-winning teacher Misha Smith talks about how she uses field trips, big questions, and projects with real-world impact to fuel student curiosity and excitement. Plus, she reflects on two recent awards she won — including one that will send her around the tip of South America.