Debbie Critchfield

A new vision for the students and parents of Idaho

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities school districts will face in the coming years is meeting parent expectations.

Is public education in a better position today than it was seven years ago?

For me, the answer to that question is no. This answer led me to run for office.

Higher education is critical to Idaho

Our institutions are investments that have proven their worth to our state and to generations of Idahoans throughout our history, even before statehood.  The numbers bear that out and the investments must continue.

The push to bridge Idaho’s digital divide

Idaho’s public education system is far better positioned coming out of the pandemic from a technology standpoint than we were a year ago.

Kindergarten readiness needs more attention

The State Board, in partnership with Idaho AEYC, received a $6 million per year, three-year federal grant to help improve Idaho’s early childhood system “with an eye toward readiness and literacy.”

Pandemic response delays Master Educator Premium portfolio reviews

I want to assure you both Board, and Department staff are working hard to move the MEP process forward.

Higher Education Enrollment is Down but the Numbers are Encouraging

I want to commend our college and university presidents, their faculties and staffs for all they have done since last March to transform their campuses and their methods of instruction. 

Khan Academy founder’s advice for distance learning

In this public health crisis, preparation is not simply helpful, it is critical.

Higher education is the key to Idaho’s post-pandemic recovery

“Adversity” seems to be a fitting theme for 2020.  Let’s change the narrative for the remainder of the year and beyond to, “Opportunity.”  

Idaho Online will improve distance learning in higher education

By building on what our institutions already offer online, rather than starting from scratch, the new digital campus will improve the entire system, making higher education more accessible and affordable for more Idahoans.