Idaho
Statehouse roundup, 1.12.24: A second school library bill surfaces
Chapter Two of the Legislature’s library debate began Friday morning. Without discussion, the Senate State Affairs Committee quickly introduced a bill designed to address school libraries. It’s the second library bill unveiled in the first week of the 2024 session. Dubbed the “School Library Material Care” act, the latest bill spells out a process to…
Private companies Hawley Troxell and Piper Sandler make building public schools their business
The law firm and bank provide expertise where much is at stake because building schools in Idaho is an odyssey fraught with restrictive laws, and complicated financial moves. To navigate it, many K-12 leaders turn to them.
But it’s expensive. Public education has siphoned millions to the private businesses over the years.
EdNews reporters Carly Flandro and Kevin Richert take a close look at their influence, commitment and costs.
Hawley Troxell’s higher ed work is far-reaching and costly
Since 2021, Idaho’s colleges and universities have outsourced more than $850,000 of work to the Boise-based firm.
Meet banker Eric Heringer
His private sector work has a major influence on public education. He shares – in his own words – how it all works.
Meet lawyers Tom Mortell and Nick Miller
These lawyers are household names among Idaho education leaders.
Analysis: What happens when the budget-writers try to budget their time?
Leaders of the Legislature’s hardest-working committee say they are trying to work smarter this year. Skeptics say the changes will shortchange Idahoans who care about how the committee spends the people’s money.
Statehouse roundup, 1.11.24: Complex charter bill debuts, Blaine repeal comes back
The charter school overhaul bill will likely get a full public hearing — but not right away.
Statehouse roundup, 1.10.24: New bill to restrict library material introduced
The legislation calls for $250 in statutory damages for libraries that fail to comply.
Fruitland zoning board rejects charter’s expansion plan
The school might now consider another location outside of the city limits.
Budget lawmakers dig into the details of governor’s education spending plans
One looming debate involves a familiar issue: the K-12 funding formula.