Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Idaho Business for Education Great Schools are Good Business ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://idahobe.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Education News](https://idahobe.org/education-news/) - Education is constantly changing, and we are here to help you navigate those changes by keeping you up to date on all the latest - [K-2 Literacy in Idaho](https://idahobe.org/k-2-literacy-in-idaho/) - Building the foundation for Idaho readers By IBE Extern Autney Lucore Literacy development is a critical component of a child's education, setting the foundation for future academic success. In Idaho, efforts to promote K-2 literacy have been underway to ensure that young learners acquire the necessary reading skills and strategies early on. This post explores - [Compton to lead Idaho STEM Ecosystem at new host IBE](https://idahobe.org/compton-to-lead-idaho-stem-ecosystem-at-new-host-ibe/) - BOISE, Idaho (June 14, 2023) — The Idaho STEM Ecosystem has named its first director: nationally recognized STEM education leader Erica Compton. Idaho Business for Education will become the new home for the Idaho EcosySTEM, previously hosted by Idaho STEM Action Center. The Idaho STEM Ecosystem is a statewide network of engaged individuals and organizations - [Major restructuring will merge two Boise State schools, and close a college](https://idahobe.org/major-restructuring-will-merge-two-boise-state-schools-and-close-a-college/) - Boise State University will merge two colleges and close down a third college, in a major restructuring plan announced late Tuesday afternoon. It’s not immediately clear how many positions will be cut, but one dean has already left the university. It’s also unclear how much money Boise State expects to save with the restructuring. “While - [Idaho Launch 2025 Annual Report](https://idahobe.org/idaho-launch-2025-annual-report/) - The Idaho LAUNCH 2025 Annual Report highlights the continued impact of Idaho LAUNCH in expanding access to postsecondary education and workforce training for both students and adults across the state. The program provides one-time grants covering up to 80% of tuition and fees for in-demand careers, supporting thousands of Idahoans in pursuing credentials aligned with - [Idaho Launch: Early wins, lasting impact](https://idahobe.org/idaho-launch-early-wins-lasting-impact/) - By IBE President & CEO Paula Kellerer Idaho Launch is delivering results — and the numbers speak for themselves. From more students going on, to stronger workforce alignment, we’re seeing the future of Idaho’s economy take shape. With strong accountability measures in place, we are receiving Launch data and digging into the results of this - [Idaho Launch Statistics](https://idahobe.org/idaho-launch-statistics/) - The numbers for Idaho Launch's first year have been released by the Workforce Development Council and we are excited to share the workforce improvements it has contributed to in our state. Here is a breakdown of some of the data. You can read the full report by clicking here. Our go-on rate improved by 3%, - [Ohio's EdChoice program declared unconstitutional](https://idahobe.org/ohios-edchoice-program-declared-unconstitutional/) - A Franklin County judge ruled Ohio's EdChoice program unconstitutional, sources confirmed to News 5 on Tuesday. EdChoice, also known as school choice, is a voucher program that helps K-12 students and their families cover the costs of attending private schools. Families have the option to choose from several types of schooling via open enrollment policies, - [Federal freeze puts $33 million of Idaho funding on ice](https://idahobe.org/federal-freeze-puts-33-million-of-idaho-funding-on-ice/) - A midsummer federal education funding freeze has iced more than $33 million earmarked for Idaho — creating a climate of uncertainty. The Boise School District is hoping to avoid staff cuts. A Democratic legislator — and Boise school teacher — is particularly worried about a program for students who are trying to learn English. State - [Latest grad rates show modest gains and a 10-year high](https://idahobe.org/latest-grad-rates-show-modest-gains-and-a-10-year-high/) - Idaho’s slowly climbing high school graduation rate reached a 10-year zenith of 82.3% last spring. It’s a modest improvement over the class of 2023’s 81% graduation rate, but good news in a state known for having one of the nation’s lowest graduation rates. The just-released 2024 graduation rate bested the state’s new, lowered goal to have 81.6% - [Idaho’s average teacher pay increased again this school year](https://idahobe.org/idahos-average-teacher-pay-increased-again-this-school-year/) - Idaho’s average K-12 teacher pay has increased to nearly $63,000 this school year. That’s about 2% more than last school year, and a 42% increase over the past decade. But while Idaho salaries have increased over time, they still don’t compete with those in neighboring states, according to a recent state report on the educator pipeline. And on - [We should say no thank you to public money for private education](https://idahobe.org/we-should-say-no-thank-you-to-public-money-for-private-education/) - By Dr. Paula Kellerer From the moonscape of Butte County to the meandering Boise River in Ada, there is plenty to see across the Gem State. When we talk about school vouchers (including educational savings accounts and refundable tax credits), the differences extend beyond the scenery. Ada County, Idaho’s most populous, is home to over - [Private school choice bill tracker](https://idahobe.org/private-school-choice-bill-tracker/) - Idaho lawmakers this session are considering whether to subsidize private schooling and home schooling. Gov. Brad Little has pledged $50 million for a private school choice bill that meets his standards — fairness, accountability, responsibility and transparency — and multiple proposals are on the table. This bill tracker explains the difference between each bill — in their funding mechanisms, - [Critchfield seeks weighted student formula, new special education fund](https://idahobe.org/critchfield-seeks-weighted-student-formula-new-special-education-fund/) - State superintendent Debbie Critchfield on Friday proposed an incremental change to the way Idaho funds K-12 public schools, with a focus on providing schools with more money for students who are more expensive to educate — like those learning English or students with disabilities. Her proposal, submitted as part of a budget request for the - [Paula Kellerer named new president of Idaho Business for Education](https://idahobe.org/paula-kellerer-named-new-president-of-idaho-business-for-education/) - Paula Kellerer, former superintendent of the Nampa School District, will become the new president and CEO of Idaho Business for Education, the nonprofit announced Thursday. Longtime leader Rod Gramer is retiring. IBE is an advocacy group that represents nearly 250 business leaders with the shared goal of improving Idaho’s education system. Gramer led the nonprofit - [Leaking roofs, collapsing pipes, freezing classrooms. How did Idaho schools get here?](https://idahobe.org/leaking-roofs-collapsing-pipes-freezing-classrooms-how-did-idaho-schools-get-here/) - The Idaho Statesman BY BECCA SAVRANSKY The bond promised to fix all that — if voters approved it. “You’re just honestly praying for a miracle,” Bayer said. “I said a lot of prayers all day long, saying, ‘OK, we can do this. We can do this.’ ” At about 8:30 p.m., a call came in - [Analysis: To solve a student mental health crisis, we need to get serious about measuring it](https://idahobe.org/analysis-to-solve-a-student-mental-health-crisis-we-need-to-get-serious-about-measuring-it/) - Idaho Ed News By Kevin Richert | 04/27/2023 The education world loves metrics. But Idaho is short one yardstick. Idaho doesn’t have a clear method of measuring school mental health issues. The best anyone can do is cobble together some mismatched statistics that suggest the problem is getting worse — and quickly. The State Board of Education - [Register Today for the Age of Agility](https://idahobe.org/register-today-for-the-age-of-agility/) - Register here. - [IBE Releases Report on the State of the Health Care Worker Shortage in the State](https://idahobe.org/health-care-report/) - Download the IBE Health Care Summit Report Idaho Business for Education (IBE) today is releasing a report on the worker shortage that is negatively impacting health care systems across the state. The report is a follow up to a summit IBE held in June which examined ways to address the problem. The half-day summit, officially - [PAULA KELLERER IS NAMED VICE PRESIDENT OF IDAHO BUSINESS FOR EDUCATION](https://idahobe.org/paula-kellerer-vp-apprenticeship/) - Idaho Business for Education is pleased to announce that Dr. Paula Kellerer is joining IBE as Vice President of its Federally Registered Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP). Dr. Kellerer brings 36 years of experience as a teacher and education leader at both the K-12 and Higher Education levels. As Vice President of IBE Dr. Kellerer will - [Critics push back on school voucher legislation for Idaho families](https://idahobe.org/critics-push-back-on-school-voucher-legislation-for-idaho-families/) - Idaho Representatives Dorothy Moon and Gayann DeMordaunt are sponsoring the Hope and Opportunity Scholarship legislation designed to give public education funds to individual families for them to spend on their child’s education. The bill calls for appropriating about $130,000 in state funds to allow families to buy things like online-learning programs, tutoring, individual classes, and extracurricular services. - ['Don't tell people how to vote:' Idaho nonprofit IFF accused of stoking false CRT fears, influencing legislators](https://idahobe.org/dont-tell-people-how-to-vote-idaho-nonprofit-iff-accused-of-stoking-false-crt-fears-influencing-legislators/) - An Idaho nonprofit that began in 2009 as a conservative think tank has risen to wield enormous power over what bills are brought forward during a legislative session, what talking points lawmakers make on the floor of the House or Senate, and even how legislators cast their votes. The Idaho Freedom Foundation's influence could be - [Sitting it out: Idaho’s college go-on rate falls once again](https://idahobe.org/sitting-it-out-idahos-college-go-on-rate-falls-once-again/) - Idaho’s college “go-on rate” continues its pandemic plunge. In 2021, only 37% of the state’s high school graduates went straight to college, down another 2 percentage points from the previous year. In 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic, the go-on rate stood at 46%. This year’s go-on rate is the lowest since at least 2014, according to - [The High Demand for Durable Skills](https://idahobe.org/america-succeeds-report/) - For the past 40 YEARS, the primary purpose of our schools has been to maximize academic achievement. However, over that time, the world has greatly changed. We believe the purpose of schools today is to ensure students can think critically and creatively, collaborate effectively with others, apply skills and knowledge to solving real problems, and - [President on a Tightrope](https://idahobe.org/president-on-a-tightrope/) - By Vimal Patel July 2, 2021 The letter from 28 Republican lawmakers arrived before the president had even moved into her new home. Typically, when conservative politicians send early demands to public-college presidents, they focus on the rising cost of college. But in this three-page missive, that concern was secondary to another target: programming designed to - [A Tech Apprenticeship Program Hiring out of Middle America](https://idahobe.org/a-tech-apprenticeship-program-hiring-out-of-middle-america/) - Even before the pandemic sent shock waves through the U.S economy, innovation had always been a key to success in business. As part of our "Work Shift" series, economics correspondent Paul Solman looks at one businessman whose determination to locate his technology company — Interapt — far from Silicon Valley led to a new twist - [Apprenticeships Can be a Workforce Game Changer](https://idahobe.org/apprenticeships-can-be-a-workforce-game-changer/) - Maureen O’Toole has a saying: “Let’s stick to exporting potatoes, not bright minds.” The vice president of youth apprenticeship for the Idaho Business for Education nonprofit is looking for eastern Idaho businesses and employers who are ready to take that next step on behalf of the Idaho workforce. “Apprenticeship creates homegrown talent to strengthen Idaho’s - [Kevin Richert Podcast, Episode 5](https://idahobe.org/kevin-richert-podcast-episode-5/) - The 2021 Legislature seems different. Is it? Kevin Richert 04/30/2021 It’s already one of the longest legislative sessions in Idaho history. But does this 2021 legislative session reflect a substantive change in ideology and tone? To explore this question — and the policy implications — Kevin Richert interviews Rod Gramer, the CEO of Idaho Business for - [IBE Vice Chair Kurt Liebich Elected as SBOE President](https://idahobe.org/ibe-vice-chair-kurt-liebich-elected-as-sboe-president/) - Board to Review Policies on Academic Freedom and Responsibility on Idaho Campuses The Idaho State Board of Education will conduct a review of its policies around academic freedom and responsibility both for faculty and students attending Idaho’s public college and universities. The recommendation was made by incoming Board President Kurt Liebich, who today was elected - [An Open Letter to Idaho's Legislature about Higher Education](https://idahobe.org/an-open-letter-to-idahos-legislature-about-higher-education/) - Dear Legislators, As leaders of Idaho’s business community, we oppose the Idaho House’s decision to reject Governor Little’s budget for our colleges and universities. Our concern is heightened by the fact that your vote came after the Idaho Senate approved the budget overwhelmingly. A strong higher education system is critical to building the workforce that - [Lapwai Addresses Mental Health by Understanding a Child’s Personal Story and Culture](https://idahobe.org/lapwai-addresses-mental-health-by-understanding-a-childs-personal-story-and-culture/) - If a Lapwai Middle/High School student needs a snack to get through the day, they just have to ask a staff member during their passing period. If a student is struggling in the classroom environment and needs a place to collect themselves, they can work from the school’s softly-lit “empowerment room.” And if they’re having - [The Push to Bridge Idaho’s Digital Divide](https://idahobe.org/the-push-to-bridge-idahos-digital-divide/) - The COVID-19 pandemic prompted educators to suddenly face challenges that quite honestly, seemed insurmountable. “Last spring, we had every student in the state in a virtual environment and it became painfully clear that the school districts and the state weren’t prepared to deliver education in that environment,” Board member Kurt Liebich recently recalled. “We have - [The Bright Side for January 15](https://idahobe.org/the-bright-side-for-january-15/) - Delta Dental of Idaho donated $40,000 to Idaho Business for Education. The money will be used to help close the digital divide for Idaho’s students. This will allow more students access to computers and Internet service for academics. Idaho's Business for Education president says especially with an added need with remote learning during a pandemic, - [Bob Lokken Named St. Luke’s Health System Chair](https://idahobe.org/bob-lokken-named-st-lukes-health-system-chair/) - St. Luke’s Health System announced that board chairman Rich Raimondi will transition his position and duties to Bob Lokken. The 16-member board will be led by Lokken following Raimondi’s final meetings as board chair. Raimondi, a former Hewlett-Packard executive, will continue to share his expertise with the board and remain on as a member. Lokken, a - [ISU Dental Hygiene Clinic to Benefit from Delta Dental of Idaho Donation](https://idahobe.org/isu-dental-hygiene-clinic-to-benefit-from-delta-dental-of-idaho-donation/) - BOISE — Idaho State University is among those receiving contributions from Delta Dental of Idaho this week. A gift of $500,000 will supply the aging dental hygiene clinic in Pocatello with 15 new chairs, dental delivery systems and lights that will transform the clinic to meet industry standards. Additionally, 10 existing chairs will be retrofitted - [Hirning Buick GMC Makes Donation to United Way Of Southeastern Idaho](https://idahobe.org/hirning-buick-gmc-makes-donation-to-united-way-of-southeastern-idaho/) - POCATELLO — Hirning Buick GMC has made a significant contribution to expanding access to high quality early learning programs in Southeastern Idaho. The dealership will make a donation of $8,000 to the United Way of Southeastern Idaho to expand access to high-quality early learning programs in our region through tuition scholarships for low to moderate-income - [Idaho National Laboratory Coding Coalition Offers Grants, Support for Idaho Schools](https://idahobe.org/idaho-national-laboratory-coding-coalition-offers-grants-support-for-idaho-schools/) - Idaho National Laboratory’s K-12 Education Enrichment Program has opened registration for its Coding Coalition, which will support extracurricular cybersecurity competitions in Idaho high schools. Available to educators across Idaho, the coalition will provide $1,500 in grant funding, resources and INL employee support to the first 30 eligible advisers who assemble an extracurricular club that has - [Legislative Academy Centers on Social and Emotional Learning](https://idahobe.org/legislative-academy-centers-on-social-and-emotional-learning/) - As the 2021 legislative session gets underway amid a global pandemic, education and budget committees are gearing up for the return of a topic that proved contentious in House Education chambers last year: addressing the social and emotional health of Idaho’s students. The topic is among State Superintendent Sherri Ybarra’s priorities for the new year and was - [A Letter of Support for Idaho’s Governmental Officials](https://idahobe.org/a-letter-of-support-for-idahos-governmental-officials/) - The Idaho Business for Education Board of Directors, which represents nearly 250 businesses across Idaho, has unanimously voted to lend its full support to our local government officials – mayors, city councils, county commissions, school leaders and health district members – who are doing all they can to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. - [Student Internet Access Concerns Rise as Discounted Hotspot Programs End](https://idahobe.org/student-internet-access-concerns-rise-as-discounted-hotspot-programs-end/) - As discounted hotspot programs phase out, school leaders worry low-income families will have difficulty maintaining access to the internet during school closures, District Administration reports. Options remain, however, with one expert noting that some companies plan to continue $10-a-month programs beyond COVID-19. While plans vary, some only require families to fill out applications showing students are - [Idaho Students, Teachers Short 186K Devices for Remote Learning, SBOE Says](https://idahobe.org/idaho-students-teachers-short-186k-devices-for-remote-learning-sboe-says/) - Idaho is short more than 186,000 digital devices needed to provide access for students and teachers, and local officials are working to bridge that gap before the fall semester. According to a survey from the Idaho State Board of Education, 173,986 devices are needed to provide access to all students currently without a remote learning - [Buy Food, Give Food: Simplot to Hold Second Frozen Goods Sale, Money Going to the Idaho Food Bank](https://idahobe.org/buy-food-give-food-simplot-to-hold-second-frozen-goods-sale-money-going-to-the-idaho-food-bank/) - In April, The JR Simplot Company held a ‘Neighborhood Food Raiser’ in Caldwell and Buhl and gave $10,000 in proceeds to the St. Luke’s Health System COVID Response Fund. Now, a second fundraiser is planned for Friday, July 10th in Boise and this time, all proceeds will go to the Idaho Food Bank. “The response to these - [Idaho Moves Ahead on Education Reforms. Are They Working? Is it Time to Revisit the Goals?](https://idahobe.org/idaho-moves-ahead-on-education-reforms-are-they-working-is-it-time-to-revisit-the-goals/) - More change is coming to Idaho public schools. Teachers are putting in place new reading plans they hope will close the gap for the one-third of third-graders who don’t read on grade level — a pivotal threshold for creating strong readers. More high school students than ever are signing up for dual-credit classes, giving them - [Otter Announces Higher Education Task Force](https://idahobe.org/otter-announces-higher-education-task-force/) - Calling his K-12 task force a success, Gov. Butch Otter wants to employ a similar approach to higher education.On Friday, Otter announced that he will create a 28-member higher education task force — in hopes of improving Idaho’s stagnant college completion rates. The task force comes as Idaho continues to struggle to meet a goal dating back - [Otter's Higher Education Task Force has a Tough Job Ahead](https://idahobe.org/otters-higher-education-task-force-has-a-tough-job-ahead/) - There is much to be optimistic about now that Gov. Butch Otter has commissioned the State Board of Education to lead a new task force on the topic of higher education. Otter’s Task Force for Improving Education, formed four years ago to tackle K-12 issues, was populated with a focused, no-nonsense collection of educators, administrators, - [Rural Education: Addressing A Tension Point in the Great American Divide](https://idahobe.org/rural-education-addressing-a-tension-point-in-the-great-american-divide/) - November’s election surfaced the angry divide between urban and rural America, and education is one of these tension points. Ashmore, Illinois is a rural town of 800 residents in central Illinois, the heartland of the United States. Each spring, about three hundred or so pre-K through 12th grade students wrap up the school year, running - [Early Learning Advocates for Pre-K State Funding Bring Case to Idaho Capitol](https://idahobe.org/early-learning-advocates-for-pre-k-state-funding-bring-case-to-idaho-capitol/) - BOISE — Advocates for state-funded pre-kindergarten programs brought their case to the Idaho Capitol building Wednesday. Idaho is one of six U.S. states that doesn’t fund pre-K, said Beth Oppenheimer. Oppenheimer is the executive director of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (AYEC), which sponsored Wednesday’s Early Learning Legislative Day event. “We - [Education Changes Lives and Economic Futures](https://idahobe.org/education-changes-lives-and-economic-futures/) - While the Idaho Legislature debates a big tax cut, the Tennessee Legislature is looking toward investing big time in its citizens’ future and the economic future of the Volunteer State. In his recent State of the State message, Tennessee’s Governor Bill Haslam, a conservative Republican, accelerated his campaign to get more Tennesseans to go on to postsecondary and - [Pre-K Advocates Make Their Case](https://idahobe.org/pre-k-advocates-make-their-case/) - Lt. Gov. Brad Little and a bipartisan coalition of 18 education and community leaders told legislators Wednesday that the cost of not investing in early childhood learning is too high for Idaho to bear. “The future — both of our quality of life and our economic success — is dependent on this issue,” Little said. - [CEO Shares His Thoughts on Improving Idaho Education](https://idahobe.org/ceo-shares-his-thoughts-on-improving-idaho-education/) - Dr. David C. Pate admits he’s no expert on education. But he fashions himself an expert on leading a traditional industry through transformative changes. Pate is the president and chief executive officer of the St. Luke’s Health System. He arrived in Boise in 2009 committed to developing an accountable care system that could be a - [Legislature Winds Down Without Preschool Bill](https://idahobe.org/legislature-winds-down-without-preschool-bill/) - TWIN FALLS — Another legislative session is winding down without movement toward state-funded preschool. Idaho is among six U.S. states that don’t offer public preschool programs. Early childhood education advocates say the lack of state-funded preschool is holding Idaho children back. But opponents say it’s the responsibility of parents, not the government, to prepare children - [The Hidden Numbers Behind Trump's Proposed Education Budget](https://idahobe.org/the-hidden-numbers-behind-trumps-proposed-education-budget/) - Earlier this month President Donald J. Trump issued a paper entitled “America First – A Budget Blueprint to Make America Great Again.” While not a completed budget request, it is an overview of the president’s goals for the 2018 federal budget. In this blueprint the president requests $59 billion for the United States Department of - [Higher Ed Task Force Begins Search for Answers](https://idahobe.org/higher-ed-task-force-begins-search-for-answers/) - Idaho’s 7-year-old goal of getting 60 percent of its workforce ages 25 to 34 equipped with post-high school certificates or degrees by 2020 has evaporated. When the goal was first created in 2010, Idaho’s rate was 38 percent. It has crept up 4 percentage points to 42 percent. “We can’t do that,” said Gov. Butch Otter told - [WWAMI Network is Key to Relieving Idaho’s Physician Shortage](https://idahobe.org/wwami-network-is-key-to-relieving-idahos-physician-shortage/) - Preparing the next generation of doctors for Idaho is one of the most urgent education issues facing our state. That’s because Idaho has one of the biggest physician shortages in the country, especially in our rural areas. Last December a special Medical Education Committee formed by the State Board of Education made several recommendations to - [Shawna Walz is New VP of Idaho Business for Education](https://idahobe.org/shawna-walz-is-new-vp-of-idaho-business-for-education/) - Shawna Walz has joined Idaho Business for Education in the role of vice president. Walz is the founder of the Idaho Diaper Bank, a non-profit organization collaborating with community partners throughout Idaho to meet the basic needs of Idaho children and families, and she spent 12 years as an executive with Oregon-based Nike. - [How Education Changed My Life (and can change yours too)](https://idahobe.org/how-education-changed-my-life-and-can-change-yours-too/) - Education changed my life. Literally changed my life. Any successes I’ve had personally or professionally I owe to the education I received in Idaho. My mother had a high school education and I’m not even sure my father graduated from high school. The family lore is that he lied about his age, quit school and - [Boise Ranks High on Forbes List of Best Cities for Young Professionals](https://idahobe.org/boise-ranks-high-on-forbes-list-of-best-cities-for-young-professionals/) - BOISE — The City of Trees is smashing yet another “best city” list” this week, ranking number two on the Forbes list of America’s 25 Best Cities for Young Professionals. So we wanted to find out why: what makes Boise so attractive to our millennial work force? - [Treasure Valley College Enrollment Falls Short of Demand](https://idahobe.org/treasure-valley-college-enrollment-falls-short-of-demand/) - The good news: College enrollment numbers are trending upward in the Treasure Valley. The bad news: The trend still isn’t strong enough. “Currently, only 39 percent of adults (25 and older) in the Treasure Valley has an associate’s degree or higher,” the Treasure Valley Education Partnership said in a report issued Wednesday. “While college enrollment and degree - [ISAT, SAT Scores Remain Virtually Flat](https://idahobe.org/isat-sat-scores-remain-virtually-flat/) - The State Board of Education took a quick and cursory look at some flat test scores Thursday afternoon. State superintendent Sherri Ybarra and State Department of Education staff presented the early numbers on the Idaho Standards Achievement Test and the SAT. On both tests, the results were virtually unchanged from 2015-16. - [Congress Should Reauthorize and Expand Home Visiting Program](https://idahobe.org/congress-should-reauthorize-and-expand-home-visiting-program/) - After 43 years in banking, I have learned a thing or two about investing; get in early, for one. Look for long-term value. Don’t make assumptions; get the facts. Any good money manager knows these basics. Yet as a nation, we often seem to forget these simple economic principles when it comes to investing in - [It's Not College or Nothing for Idaho Students](https://idahobe.org/its-not-college-or-nothing-for-idaho-students/) - Idaho has set the goal of having 60 percent of our 25-34-year-old workers hold a postsecondary credential by 2020. This goal was established because studies show 6 out of 10 workers need education after high school to qualify for a job. Unfortunately, that goal is often misunderstood to mean that 60 percent of our workers - [Idaho Business Leaders Want to Boost Twin Falls Student Achievement](https://idahobe.org/idaho-business-leaders-want-to-boost-twin-falls-student-achievement/) - TWIN FALLS — A group of Idaho business leaders wants to partner with the Twin Falls School District to boost student achievement. It’s part of Idaho Business for Education‘s schoolhouse strategy, launched last year. It wants to create six to eight local teams throughout the state — including in Twin Falls — by the end of 2017. The - [Spring Reading Scores Show Signs of Improvement](https://idahobe.org/spring-reading-scores-show-signs-of-improvement/) - One year into an $11.25 million-a-year literacy initiative, Idaho reading scores are trending upward. More kindergarten through third-grade students are reading at grade level — and fewer students are lagging behind. - [Returns on the Literacy Initiative, in Historical Context](https://idahobe.org/returns-on-the-literacy-initiative-in-historical-context/) - We’ve spent a lot of time and words comparing this year’s reading scores with the 2015-16 numbers. And for good reason. The 2016-17 spring scores represent an important mile marker — one year into an $11.25 million-a-year state effort to help at-risk readers. Last week, I received an email suggesting I take the long view. - [Ybarra, State Board of Education Turn Over ESSA Plan to Otter](https://idahobe.org/ybarra-state-board-of-education-turn-over-essa-plan-to-otter/) - Gov. Butch Otter is beginning his 30-day review of Idaho’s plan to comply with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act. And at the end of the review period, Otter plans to submit a written response to the State Department of Education and the State Board of Education, said Marilyn Whitney, Otter’s deputy chief of staff - [Alquist's Plan for Education: 'It's Creating That Clarity'](https://idahobe.org/alquists-plan-for-education-its-creating-that-clarity/) - When Tommy Ahlquist talks about education, he keeps circling back to one word: clarity. Ahlquist says the state needs a clear, agreed-upon definition of student achievement. For the Republican gubernatorial candidate, that definition means students hit fourth-grade reading benchmarks, eighth-grade math benchmarks and graduate high school prepared for their future. - [A Deeper Dive into the Go-On Rates: A Case Study from Coeur d'Alene](https://idahobe.org/a-deeper-dive-into-the-go-on-rates-a-case-study-from-coeur-dalene/) - The Coeur d’Alene School District had one of the state’s highest college “go-on” rates in 2016. But Trina Caudle already has her eyes on the next round of numbers. She hopes the district’s new college and career counselors will help even more graduates prepare for life after high school graduation. - [Target 2025? Task Force Presses Reset on '60 Percent Goal'](https://idahobe.org/target-2025-task-force-presses-reset-on-60-percent-goal/) - Idaho’s much-discussed “60 percent goal” won’t go away. But it will probably look different. A gubernatorial task force started its final formal meeting Friday by pushing back the timetable — and pushing the reset button on the “60 percent” message. The new target date: Have 60 percent of Idaho’s 25- to 34-year-olds hold some form - [Survey: Teachers Support State Standards, Question Assessments](https://idahobe.org/survey-teachers-support-state-standards-question-assessments/) - Teachers overwhelmingly support state academic standards — such as Common Core — but they are skeptical about the tests aligned to standards. That’s the takeaway from a new study from the RAND Corporation. In a February 2016 survey of more than 1,300 teachers nationally, 88 percent of respondents said they favored state standards for math, and - [Schools Promote Career-Tech](https://idahobe.org/schools-promote-career-tech/) - Gone are the days when a mechanic can pop the hood of a car, take a look around and figure out what to do. Today’s auto shop graduates use diagnostic software to determine a vehicle’s problem, and then must explain the solution coherently, in a way that all customers will understand. - [DeVos Outlines Vision for 'American Education'](https://idahobe.org/devos-outlines-vision-for-american-education/) - Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has outlined in the most specific terms to date her vision and policy priorities for education in the United States. In a document uploaded to the Federal Register and scheduled to be published Thursday, the Department of Education details 11 proposed priorities for use in competitive grant programs that “reflect the Secretary’s vision for American - [BSU Study Hails Success of Boise Pre-K Pilot Program](https://idahobe.org/bsu-study-hails-success-of-boise-pre-k-pilot-program/) - Students who complete a Boise pre-K program outscore their classmates on kindergarten reading tests, according to a study released Tuesday. Boise State University researchers took a closer look at the Boise Pre-K Project, a two-year-old pilot program in Boise’s higher-poverty Vista neighborhood. - [New Research Explores Student Opportunity Gaps](https://idahobe.org/new-research-explores-student-opportunity-gaps/) - Idaho lags behind most other states in providing opportunity for white and Hispanic students — the state’s two largest student populations. In its latest KIDS COUNT data released Tuesday, the Annie E. Casey Foundationrates the states on a dozen milestones — from infant health and access to pre-K to test scores and college graduation rates — - [Idaho's Teacher Shortage is Widespread - and it Isn't Going Away](https://idahobe.org/idahos-teacher-shortage-is-widespread-and-it-isnt-going-away/) - When it came time for the Madison School District to hire a physical education teacher, the Eastern Idaho district received just one application. The applicant, now on staff, is off to a good start, Superintendent Geoffrey Thomas said this week. But he’s also well aware of the odds. The shallower the applicant pool, the greater the chance - [Otter Calls for Higher Education Shakeup](https://idahobe.org/otter-calls-for-higher-education-shakeup/) - Gov. Butch Otter teased out a proposal Wednesday to shake up Idaho’s higher education landscape — and put a renewed focus on Idaho’s signature education goal. “I’m going to ask the Legislature to structurally change exactly how we run higher education in the state of Idaho,” Otter told hundreds of political and business leaders at the Associated - [Does Preschool Pay Off? Tulsa Says Yes](https://idahobe.org/does-preschool-pay-off-tulsa-says-yes/) - In 2001, not long after Oklahoma had adopted one of the nation’s first universal pre-K programs, researchers from Georgetown University began tracking kids who came out of the program in Tulsa, documenting their academic progress over time. In a new report published in the Journal of Policy Analysis and Management today, researchers were able to show - [Kindergarten Reading Scores Hit an 11-Year Low](https://idahobe.org/kindergarten-reading-scores-hit-an-11-year-low/) - Fall reading scores remained relatively flat from 2016 to 2017 — but scores vary considerably by grade level. Here are the percentages of kindergarten through third-grade students who scored at grade level on the Idaho Reading Indicator. Barely half of kindergartners showed up to school this fall reading at grade level. The statewide scores aren’t - [Modern Apprenticeships Offer Path to Career and College](https://idahobe.org/modern-apprenticeships-offer-path-to-career-and-college/) - At least in word — if not always in deed — school districts across the United States have shifted from preparing students for college or careers, to preparing students for college andcareers. District missions and visions have been re-written to reflect efforts to ready graduates for both paths, a signature goal of former President Barack Obama’s Race to the Top - [Legislature Kicks off with Education Conversation](https://idahobe.org/legislature-kicks-off-with-education-conversation/) - The 2018 Legislature began with a national speaker who lectured about the future of education in the United States. Idaho Business for Education’s sixth annual Legislative Academy started at 8 a.m. Monday, the first day of the session. Idaho business leaders, educators and lawmakers packed the Lincoln Auditorium to hear a speech on education reform, - [Poll Finds Widespread Support for State Funded Pre-K](https://idahobe.org/poll-finds-widespread-support-for-state-funded-pre-k/) - A supermajority of Idahoans says the state should put money into pre-kindergarten programs, according to new statewide polling data. Seventy-six percent of voters and 80 percent of parents of children 5 and younger support state-funding for pre-K, according to the poll unveiled Wednesday by the Association for the Education of Young Children, an early education - [Poverty is Our Biggest Challenge in Education](https://idahobe.org/poverty-is-our-biggest-challenge-in-education/) - Poverty is one of the biggest obstacles to educating Idaho’s children and young adults. Research highlights the long-running correlation between high poverty rates and low student performance — a “crisis” that has become the “norm” in schools across the nation, according to national experts William Parrett and Kathleen Budge. - [Nampa's Lone Star Middle School Partners with HP](https://idahobe.org/nampas-lone-star-middle-school-partners-with-hp/) - The Nampa School District will partner with some high tech business and education groups to turn Lone Star Middle School into an HP Spotlight School. Superintendent Paula Kellerer joined leaders from Idaho Business for Education, HP, and Digital Promise Global during Tuesday’s announcement in downtown Boise. They said the partnership will focus on technology and - [Reading Scores Drop in Kindergarten, Increase in Grades 1-3](https://idahobe.org/reading-scores-drop-in-kindergarten-increase-in-grades-1-3/) - Fewer kindergarten students showed up to school this fall prepared to read, according to preliminary Idaho Reading Indicator data released Thursday. All told, about 55 percent of Idaho’s 90,000 K-3 students who took the IRI hit grade-level reading benchmarks, schools chief Sherri Ybarra said in a news release. The remaining 45 percent did not. - [Districts Start College-and-Career Advising in Middle School](https://idahobe.org/districts-start-college-and-career-advising-in-middle-school/) - Idaho Falls is one of several Idaho districts to start providing college-and-career advising for middle schoolers in recent years. Educators and state education leaders attribute the practice largely to Idaho’s emphasis on postsecondary education. For years, the state has tried desperately to boost its college go-on and completion rates. Advanced Opportunities, including state-funded dual-credit courses for - [Latino Students Matter to Idaho's Future, Experts Say. So Why Do They Lag Behind Peers?](https://idahobe.org/latino-students-matter-to-idahos-future-experts-say-so-why-do-they-lag-behind-peers/) - The success of Latino students is going to be critical to Idaho’s economic future, according to national and local experts. But the state stumbles when it comes to ensuring all Latino students are successful in school and prepared for Idaho’s future workforce. The number of Latino students in Idaho schools has nearly doubled in the - [Educators Beef Up Efforts to Combat Teen Suicide](https://idahobe.org/educators-beef-up-efforts-to-combat-teen-suicide/) - Compass Academy senior D’Artagnan Starkey remembers dozens of locals launching lighted lanterns at night over the Snake River in remembrance of a peer’s suicide a few years ago. The death wasn’t supposed to happen, said Starkey, a 17-year-old with wavy black hair and wrists adorned with leather bracelets. “Teen suicides are surreal because we’re young and - [Idaho NAEP Scores Hold Steady, and Exceed National Averages](https://idahobe.org/idaho-naep-scores-hold-steady-and-exceed-national-averages/) - Idaho students fared well on the test widely known as “the nation’s report card.” And Idaho’s scores held steady, with one notable and troubling exception: Eighth-grade reading scores declined significantly. This decrease falls in line with a larger trend on this year’s National Assessment of Educational Progress. - [K-21 Education Task Force Approves Five Recommendations](https://idahobe.org/k-21-education-task-force-approves-five-recommendations/) - After five months of work and 28 meetings, Gov. Brad Little’s K-12 education task force voted Monday to approve five recommendations that touch on topics from increasing teacher pay to all-day kindergarten. “We’re pleased with the recommendations that have come out,” task force member and Idaho Education Association President Kari Overall said. - [K-12 Enrollment Continues to Grow](https://idahobe.org/k-12-enrollment-continues-to-grow/) - Idaho’s K-12 public schools continue to add thousands of students every year, preliminary State Department of Education numbers show. The latest statewide fall enrollment tally: 310,628 — up about 3,400 students, or about 1.1 percent, from a year earlier. - [Group Supplies Education Recommendations](https://idahobe.org/group-supplies-education-recommendations/) - The “Our Kids, Idaho’s Future” education task force approved five recommendations this week, which will be forwarded to Gov. Brad Little for consideration. If accepted by Little, the recommendations will serve as a road map for future investment and improvement in Idaho’s K-12 public education system - [State Board Appoints New Career-Technical Administrator](https://idahobe.org/state-board-appoints-new-career-technical-administrator/) - The State Board of Education appointed Clay Long to serve as the next administrator of the Idaho Division of Career-Technical Education on Tuesday. The 33-year-old has served as chief of staff to Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling since July. Previously, Long worked as a CTE instructor and administrator in the West Ada and Nampa school districts. - [Little Names Boise Businessman to State Board](https://idahobe.org/little-names-boise-businessman-to-state-board/) - After a six-month search, Gov. Brad Little has an eighth member of the State Board of Education: Boise businessman Kurt Liebich. Little announced the appointment to the influential and far-reaching policymaking board Thursday, saying his new appointee is “enthusiastic about improving opportunities for Idaho’s youth.” - [What's Working: Reading Success Stories from Five Idaho Schools](https://idahobe.org/whats-working-reading-success-stories-from-five-idaho-schools/) - Reading scores tend to improve from fall to spring, as teachers have a full school year to work with young students. In the fall 2018, 52.5 percent of Idaho kindergarten through third-grade students tested at grade level. By spring 2019, that number was 69.7 percent – an improvement of 17.2 percentage points. - [Little Embraces the Literacy Issue For the Long Haul](https://idahobe.org/little-embraces-the-literacy-issue-for-the-long-haul/) - When Gov. Brad Little talks to educators — or visits with his staffers’ kids or his own grandchildren — his passion for reading is renewed. He’s convinced, again and again, that Idaho’s children need to learn to read by third grade, so they are prepared for learning and life. “I have no reason to take - [John Wagner Named Idaho National Laboratory Director](https://idahobe.org/john-wagner-named-idaho-national-laboratory-director/) - IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Battelle Energy Alliance’s (BEA) Board of Managers announced today that John Wagner, Ph.D., will be the next director of Idaho National Laboratory (INL). BEA manages and operates the laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy. Wagner will begin his new role on Dec. 11, 2020. Wagner has been at INL since - [Lori McCann Joins IBE Board of Directors](https://idahobe.org/lori-mccann-joins-ibe-board-of-directors/) - Lori, a long-time Idahoan, lives in Lewiston with her husband, Bill, Jr., their two dogs, Bella and Locker, and their 5 horses. Together, she and her husband have 4 children and 10 grandchildren. She and her husband own, manage, and develop residential and commercial properties, run a cattle ranch where she enjoys spending time riding - [Doing Schoolwork in the Parking Lot Is Not a Solution](https://idahobe.org/doing-schoolwork-in-the-parking-lot-is-not-a-solution/) - When Autumn Lee, a pre-med junior at the University of New Mexico, needs to download lectures or class assignments, she hops in her car and drives 45 minutes to the McDonald’s nearest to her town of Sanders, Ariz., to connect to reliable Wi-Fi from her car. After the university sent students home because of the - [Idaho Back to School Framework 2020](https://idahobe.org/idaho-back-to-school-framework-2020/) - Dear Idaho School Leaders, Educators, School Staff and Parents, The last several months have presented extraordinary challenges for Idaho students, parents, educators, and staff. I’m sincerely thankful to our educators and schoolstaff for continuing to serve our youngest citizens. The rapid closure of schools in the spring demonstrated the importance of Idaho’s public school system - [Workforce Experts to Discuss Benefits of Youth Apprenticeships in Online Event](https://idahobe.org/workforce-experts-to-discuss-benefits-of-youth-apprenticeships-in-online-event/) - Idaho businesses, educators and career counselors are encouraged to participate in Expanding Youth Apprenticeship in Idaho, a free virtual apprenticeship accelerator, June 18, 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. MT. The web-based event will focus on how youth apprenticeship can help businesses develop a talent pipeline while providing youth with hands-on training and instruction leading to - [INL Cares Supports Southeastern Idaho](https://idahobe.org/inl-cares-supports-southeastern-idaho/) - Across the country, individuals are banding together to do whatever they can to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. From people sewing and donating face masks to food banks providing millions of meals to those suddenly without income — the resolve of the American people is truly inspiring. In this spirit, Battelle Energy Alliance, which manages Idaho - [Next Steps Idaho has answers for students](https://idahobe.org/next-steps-idaho-has-answers-for-students/) - Byron Yankey has worked in public education in Idaho for 45 years. Never has he seen anything like what has occurred this spring. “There have been disruptive events in the past, but never as widespread as this,” he said. As part of the State Board of Education’s Outreach Team, Yankey and other team members are - [Sparklight® Extends COVID-19 Response Efforts Through June 30](https://idahobe.org/sparklight-extends-covid-19-response-efforts-through-june-30/) - Phoenix, AZ – Sparklight today announced that it will extend its commitment to the Federal Communications Commission’s Keep Americans Connected Pledge in an effort to provide continued connectivity for customers and communities and to ease the financial burden of those impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Sparklight originally committed to the pledge on March 13, 2020, and - [INL Launches Rapid Technology Deployment Program in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic](https://idahobe.org/inl-launches-rapid-technology-deployment-program-in-response-to-covid-19-pandemic/) - In response to President Trump’s declaration that the COVID-19 pandemic has become a national emergency, Idaho National Laboratory’s Technology Deployment organization has launched the Rapid Technology Deployment Program. This program supports national relief efforts by transitioning INL innovations to industry as expeditiously as possible and removing possible delays or burdens on partners. Following the model - [Districts Weigh In On Learning at Home](https://idahobe.org/districts-weigh-in-on-learning-at-home/) - IDAHO FALLS — For some students, home-based learning has been effective, but for those who don’t have the tools necessary to do online learning, it’s been far from successful. Idaho Business for Education is an employer advocacy group committed to transforming Idaho’s education system. To continue with their mission while schools are shut down, they - [Group Collecting Devices, Cash Donations to Help Students Finish School Year Online](https://idahobe.org/group-collecting-devices-cash-donations-to-help-students-finish-school-year-online/) - IDAHO FALLS — For some students, home-based learning has been effective, but for those who don’t have the tools necessary to do online learning, it’s been far from successful. Idaho Business for Education is an employer advocacy group committed to transforming Idaho’s education system. To continue with their mission while schools are shut down, they - [IBE Collects Donated Computers for School Districts](https://idahobe.org/ibe-collects-donated-computers-for-school-districts/) - When Caldwell School District closed its schools in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, Janeth Calderon was left with little more than her own cellphone’s hotspot to teach her four children. “It’s been challenging,” Calderon said. But thanks to efforts within the school district, and a program through Idaho Business for Education, Calderon’s - [How to Help Local Kids Without Computers or Internet Get Needed Tools to Learn from Home](https://idahobe.org/how-to-help-local-kids-without-computers-or-internet-get-needed-tools-to-learn-from-home/) - Idaho Business for Education has announced a statewide initiative called the Community Activation Project to help students continue their learning while the school buildings across Idaho are closed. There are 19,644 Idaho students without a PC and 13,998 without internet connectivity at home. The two goals of this project are to get devices into the hands of - [INL encourages employees to work from home amid coronavirus outbreak](https://idahobe.org/inl-encourages-employees-to-work-from-home-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/) - IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Beginning March 17, Idaho National Laboratory will recommend its employees work from home, depending on the nature of their jobs. The announcement came Monday from INL Laboratory Director Mark Peters who says the measures are meant to ensure the health and well-being of the lab’s workers. At this time, no INL - [IBE Project Seeks Used Laptops for Students](https://idahobe.org/ibe-project-seeks-used-laptops-for-students/) - A statewide nonprofit of more than 200 business leaders is determined to get computers and internet service into the hands of Idaho’s students. With Idaho schools closing because of the coronavirus pandemic, school districts around the state switched to online learning. Unfortunately, not all students have the computers or internet access needed for remote learning. - [Idaho Business for Education Getting Donated Laptops to Students for Online Learning](https://idahobe.org/idaho-business-for-education-getting-donated-laptops-to-students-for-online-learning/) - The Community Activation Project (CAP) is designed to get used laptops and an internet connection in the hands of students that don’t have access from home. - [STEM Action Center Resource Portal](https://idahobe.org/stem-action-center-resource-portal/) - The Idaho STEM Action Center is working to bring STEM into your homes while kids are learning away from school. We’re going live on Facebook weekdays at 9:00 a.m. MST this week in conjunction with KBOI with experiments for you to try at home! https://www.facebook.com/IdahoSTEMAC/ - [COVID-19 School Operations Guidance](https://idahobe.org/covid-19-school-operations-guidance/) - The State Board of Education appreciates the hard work and dedication of school leaders, educators, and other school staff statewide during this difficult time. After consulting with the Governor, the Governor’s K-12 Emergency Council members, and the Department of Health and Welfare on the ongoing extent of this crisis and the impact to our school - [Coronavirus Pandemic Highlights Importance of Child Care in Idaho](https://idahobe.org/coronavirus-pandemic-highlights-importance-of-child-care-in-idaho/) - (Boise) As the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact every aspect of our state and our economy, they are driving home the critical importance of child care in Idaho. While the Idaho State Board of Education closed all schools until April 20, the choice to keep child care programs open across the state - [Micron Dedicates $35 Million to Support Global Communities, Provide Financial Relief](https://idahobe.org/micron-dedicates-35-million-to-support-global-communities-provide-financial-relief/) - BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Micron announced Wednesday it is dedicating $35 million to support global communities and to provide financial relief for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company will launch a new Micron Foundation $10 million relief fund, increase employee gift matching, and introduce financial assistance for team members through grants. “Micron is prioritizing - [COVID-19 Treasure Valley Idaho/Southwestern Idaho Medical and Related Supplies Donation Coordination](https://idahobe.org/covid-19-treasure-valley-idaho-southwestern-idaho-medical-and-related-supplies-donation-coordination/) - This service is provided by United Way of Treasure Valley in coordination with Central and Southwest District Health located in Idaho. Please note – if the materials you have to contribute do not meet current demand you may be routed to non-medical supply collection programs. Items will only be connected to organizations serving the community, - [INL Transitions to ‘Minimum-Safe Plus’ Status](https://idahobe.org/inl-transitions-to-minimum-safe-plus-status/) - IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — In light of the secretary of Energy’s message to maximize telework for the safety of employees and the community at large, and in consideration of the recent state of Idaho “Stay Home” order applicable statewide, Idaho National Laboratory will transition to “minimum-safe plus” status. This status means that only select mission - [Governor Little Signs New Executive Orders, Proclamation to Further Position Idaho to Overcome Coronavirus Challenge](https://idahobe.org/governor-little-signs-new-executive-orders-proclamation-to-further-position-idaho-to-overcome-coronavirus-challenge/) - Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little’s latest executive orders and proclamation will boost funds available for Idaho’s coronavirus response, manage the impact of the crisis on the state budget, and help the thousands of Idahoans suddenly unemployed due to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). “The number of unemployed in Idaho jumped 1,200-percent in a matter - [Special Board Meeting Scheduled Monday](https://idahobe.org/special-board-meeting-scheduled-monday/) - The Idaho State Board of Education will hold a virtual special Board meeting on Monday, March 30, 2020 starting at 3:00 p.m. (MDT). The purpose of the meeting is to hear COVID-19 response-related updates from leaders in Idaho’s K-12 and higher education systems. The Board will also consider a partial waiver of certain Career Technical - [Internet Access Has Never Been More Important for Montana Students, but Gaps Remain.](https://idahobe.org/internet-access-has-never-been-more-important-for-montana-students-but-gaps-remain/) - Editor’s note: While this is a Montana article, we are facing the same issue in Idaho. Rural internet access has long been a priority for education advocacy groups. There’s been incremental progress and some victories; but it was one of so many issues in federal and state policy spheres, like a line of birds perched - [Kuna School District to Try Distance Learning](https://idahobe.org/kuna-school-district-to-try-distance-learning/) - The Kuna School District announced Monday plans to transition to distance learning over the coming weeks. After an Idaho State Board of Education order last week shut down in-person classes statewide until April 20, the district started planning for a shift to online classes. While school doors were already locked to students last week during - [New State and Federal Legislation Boosts College Savings Plans](https://idahobe.org/new-state-and-federal-legislation-boosts-college-savings-plans/) - (Boise) – The Idaho Legislature has overwhelmingly approved a plan to give Idahoans who are saving for college and business owners who support college savings efforts even more reasons to participate in IDeal—Idaho’s 529 College Savings Plan. By a margin of 33-1, the Senate voted March 18 in favor of HB 550, a bill that - [Idaho Business for Education Launching Community Activation Project](https://idahobe.org/idaho-business-for-education-launching-community-activation-project/) - BOISE, Idaho — Idaho Business for Education (IBE) is launching an effort to get computers and internet connections to Idaho students. It is called the community activation project and it has two goals. The first is to get devices into the hands of students who do not have them and to provide connectivity to those - [Idaho Business for Education Coordinating Effort to Give Students Resources to Access Online Classrooms](https://idahobe.org/idaho-business-for-education-coordinating-effort-to-give-students-resources-to-access-online-classrooms/) - KUNA, Idaho — Idaho students will be learning from home for the rest of the school year due to the coronavirus, however, some students do not have the crucial resources they need for online learning – a laptop and an internet connection. Idaho Business for Education launched the Community Activation Project to combat this issue, gathering unused laptops donated - [Employer FAQs about Unemployment Insurance and COVID-19](https://idahobe.org/employer-faqs-about-unemployment-insurance-and-covid-19/) - Will workers qualify for unemployment benefits if the coronavirus (COVID-19) causes an employer to temporarily or permanently shut down operations? Unemployment insurance (UI) benefits are available to individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer must shut down operations and no work is available, individuals may be eligible for unemployment - [COVID-19 Treasure Valley Community Resource Page](https://idahobe.org/covid-19-treasure-valley-community-resource-page/) - We’ve compiled a list of Community Resources available throughout the Treasure Valley to support those directly and indirectly impacted by COVID-19. - [COVID-19: The latest news from Boise State](https://idahobe.org/covid-19-the-latest-news-from-boise-state/) - On Monday, March 16, Boise State University began delivering all Spring 2020 courses remotely through the end of the semester in an unprecedented campus move to help Idaho slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). On Thursday, March 19 the university announced it would be taking additional steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in - [Idaho Wants to Hear from Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus](https://idahobe.org/idaho-wants-to-hear-from-small-businesses-impacted-by-coronavirus/) - Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little announced the State of Idaho is seeking responses from small, non-farm businesses across Idaho whose operations and ability to conduct business have been disrupted by the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). - [History Will Remember Our Reaction to Coronavirus, So Let’s be There for Each Other](https://idahobe.org/history-will-remember-our-reaction-to-coronavirus-so-lets-be-there-for-each-other/) - I’ve been talking to many Idahoans about the 2019 novel coronavirus. Everyone has an opinion, and most people are doing their best to stay healthy and prevent others from getting sick. The situation with coronavirus is changing hourly, and history will remember our reaction to it. I want history to remember that Idahoans were there - [College of Southern Idaho Names New President](https://idahobe.org/college-of-southern-idaho-names-new-president/) - TWIN FALLS, Idaho — A provost from a New York community college will be the College of Southern Idaho’s next president. The Times-News reports L. Dean Fisher, the provost of the State University of New York’s Corning Community College, will be CSI’s fifth president when he replaces retiring president Jeff Fox in June. - [Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers](https://idahobe.org/interim-guidance-for-businesses-and-employers/) - This interim guidance is based on what is currently known about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will update this interim guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available. CDC is working across the Department of Health and Human Services and across the U.S. government in the public - [Idaho Digital Learning Alliance Offers Educators, Parents Digital Resources](https://idahobe.org/idaho-digital-learning-alliance-offers-educators-parents-digital-resources/) - Idaho’s state run online school, the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance, is offering digital support to schools that are moving classrooms online in response to COVID-19. The school is offering what it calls “eDay” resources, ranging from webinars for teachers to access to online textbooks. An ongoing “eDays for teachers” webinar will help teachers navigate Google - [Statewide Project Seeks Used Laptops for Students](https://idahobe.org/statewide-project-seeks-used-laptops-for-students/) - A statewide nonprofit of more than 200 business leaders is determined to get computers and internet service into the hands of Idaho’s students. With Idaho schools closing because of the coronavirus pandemic, school districts around the state switched to online learning. Unfortunately, not all students have the computers or internet access needed for remote learning. ## Pages - [Home](https://idahobe.org/) - IBE is a group of over 250 Idaho business leaders committed to transforming the education system to set our students up for success in school, work, and life. - [IBE Membership](https://idahobe.org/membership/) - alt - [Board and Staff](https://idahobe.org/board-and-staff/) - Meet the IBE Board of Directors and staff members who are committed to transforming Idaho’s education system. - [Idaho Gives](https://idahobe.org/idaho-gives/) - [Contact Us](https://idahobe.org/contact/) - Have a question, interested in becoming a member, or wanting to learn more about our mission? Contact us! - [YAP Youth Apprenticeship](https://idahobe.org/youth-apprenticeship/) - Our apprenticeship program was created to build a greater connection between what happens in the classroom and in a career. - [Idaho Launch](https://idahobe.org/idaho-launch/) - [Fall into Partnership](https://idahobe.org/fall-into-partnership/) - [YAP YOUTH](https://idahobe.org/youth/) - [YAP Student Page](https://idahobe.org/yap-student-page/) - [YAP Connect](https://idahobe.org/yap-connect/) - [YAP Apprentice Employer](https://idahobe.org/employer/) - [Principal Partnership Program](https://idahobe.org/principal-partnership-program/) - Our principal partnership program brings principals and business leaders together. - [Our Work](https://idahobe.org/our-work/) - Our challenge is to create the highly-educated and skilled workforce our employers need for businesses to thrive in the 21st century. - [Within Reach](https://idahobe.org/within-reach/) - We partner with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco to launch a pilot go-on project called “Within Reach” in the Idaho Falls and Nampa school districts. - [IBE Innovative Education Grant](https://idahobe.org/ibe-grant/) - [Get Involved with IBE](https://idahobe.org/get-involved/) - [Our Mission](https://idahobe.org/our-mission/) - We strive to be a driving force in developing Idaho's education system resulting in graduates who have post-secondary credentials and who are workforce ready. - [Opt-in for IBE Newsletter](https://idahobe.org/newsletter/) - [Presentations on Vouchers](https://idahobe.org/presentations-on-vouchers/) - [Podcast](https://idahobe.org/podcast/) - Stay tuned for articles, videos, and interviews with leaders in the field of education. - [Youth Apprenticeship Letter of Intent](https://idahobe.org/letter/) - [New Home](https://idahobe.org/new-home/) - [IBE Programs](https://idahobe.org/ibe-programs/) - [Home Test](https://idahobe.org/home-test/) - [Test page](https://idahobe.org/test-page/) - [Learning from the mistakes of other states](https://idahobe.org/learning-from-the-mistakes-of-other-states/) - [School privatization: No transparency, no accountability](https://idahobe.org/school-privatization-no-transparency-no-accountability/) - [Privatization Overview](https://idahobe.org/privatization-overview/) - [Wisconsin Privatization](https://idahobe.org/wisconsin-privatization/) - [Slideshow banner test](https://idahobe.org/slideshow-banner-test/) - [YAP slider test](https://idahobe.org/yap-slider-test/) - [Partners with Education](https://idahobe.org/partners-with-education-2/) - We refer to relationships with education as "partnerships" because as a partner, resources (time, opportunity cost, expertise) are required from both sides of the equation and these resources are respected. In forming Partnerships, companies/organizations are strategically matched with schools based on common goals, geography, leadership preferences, and long-term sustainability. If you are a business leader - [Partners with Education Survey](https://idahobe.org/partners-survey/) - [](https://idahobe.org/partners-with-education/) - [Legislative Scorecard](https://idahobe.org/2021-legislative-scorecard/) - [Youth Apprenticeship Opportunities](https://idahobe.org/youth-apprenticeship-opportunities/) - [Durable Skills](https://idahobe.org/durable-skills/) - [Apprenticeships](https://idahobe.org/apprenticeships/) - [Close the Divide](https://idahobe.org/close-the-divide/) - Remote learning is the new normal. With generous help from the community we are making strides to close the digital divide for students across the state. - [Student Achievement Teams](https://idahobe.org/student-achievement-teams/) - We work directly with superintendents, trustees, & leaders on issues to close gaps to help students succeed. We call these efforts "Student Achievement Teams." - [Privacy Policy](https://idahobe.org/privacy-policy/) - Read our Privacy Policy. - [Contact Confirmation Page](https://idahobe.org/contact-confirmation-page/) ## Commentary - [Guest Opinion on Extremism](https://idahobe.org/commentary/guest-opinion-on-extremism-by-rod-gramer/) - By Rod Gramer In 1954, after years of successfully smearing innocent people, ruining lives and careers, Wisconsin Senator Joseph McCarthy launched a new attack against an unlikely target – the United States Army. Unlike his other victims, the Army had the power and influence to fight back. McCarthy accused the Army of having weak security - [Guest Opinion on Vouchers](https://idahobe.org/commentary/guest-opinion-on-vouchers/) - Sometimes you wonder if certain members of the Idaho Legislature have even read the Idaho Constitution. For all their pronouncements about honoring and faithfully following the U.S. and Idaho Constitutions, they pay precious little regard to them when passing legislation that fits their agenda. Legislators have ignored their duty under the Constitution to adequately fund - [Recent studies show public schools are the backbone of most communities in Idaho](https://idahobe.org/commentary/recent-studies-show-public-schools-are-the-backbone-of-most-communities-in-idaho/) - Two recent studies should put to rest the debate about how important education is to Idaho’s residents, economy and quality of life. The first is a landmark study on the economic impact of higher education on our state. The second is Boise State University’s seventh annual Idaho Public Policy Survey of what Idahoans say our policymakers’ - [Rural Idaho Not Ready for Ed-Exit](https://idahobe.org/commentary/rural-idaho-not-ready-for-ed-exit/) - It is shocking that any Idaho legislator would pander for a positive “Ed-Exit” rating by voting down the public education budget. Have they thought through their U.S. and Idaho Constitutional duty and how this impacts families in rural Idaho? What is Ed-Exit you ask? The Ed-Exit.com website calls itself an ongoing “national movement” to abandon - [After a Challenging Year, Idaho Education Needs our Support](https://idahobe.org/commentary/after-a-challenging-year-idaho-education-needs-our-support/) - By Governor Brad Little The past 13 months have presented enormous challenges for students, parents, teachers, and school administrators. The sudden changes in work life, home life, and social life, along with new ways of learning and instructing, have firmly placed the COVID-19 pandemic as one of our most difficult life experiences. We don’t want - [Op-Ed: Higher Ed a Wise Investment for State's Economy](https://idahobe.org/commentary/977/) - Idaho’s colleges and universities are consistently rated among the best public postsecondary schools in the nation. Unfortunately, there is now an effort to weaken our higher education institutions by cutting their funding. If this effort succeeds it will be more difficult for our institutions to fulfill their mission of educating our state’s next generation of - [Idaho Needs a Diverse, Educated Workforce](https://idahobe.org/commentary/idaho-needs-a-diverse-educated-workforce/) - When Tom Mueller grew up in St. Maries, his logger father hoped his son would follow in his footsteps. A guidance counselor urged him to become an airplane mechanic. But his math teacher asked if he was going to become an engineer. Mueller replied no because he didn’t know what an engineer was. The teacher - [Guest Opinion on House Bill 294](https://idahobe.org/commentary/guest-opinion-on-house-bill-294/) - Supporters of privatizing education are about to change the Idaho Constitution and 130 years of education policy without going to a vote of the people. Instead, those who want taxpayers to fund private schools should take their case to the people and let them decide as the Constitution requires. Idaho’s founders were clear when they ## Staff - [Dr. Paula Kellerer](https://idahobe.org/staff/paula-kellerer/) - Dr. Paula Kellerer has served as President and CEO of Idaho Business for Education (IBE) since August of 2024. Before taking on that role, Dr. Kellerer was Vice President of IBE's Youth Apprenticeship Program for two years. Dr. Kellerer was superintendent of the Nampa School District, the third largest in Idaho, from 2017 to February - [Leslie Barbour](https://idahobe.org/staff/leslie-barbour/) - As Communications Director for Idaho Business for Education, Leslie Barbour drives their social media, keeps their website updated, designs newsletters and manages administrative duties. Leslie is an Idaho native who moved to Texas in 2001. She graduated in Austin from the University of Texas with a bachelor’s in Advertising and received an associate degree in - [Christina Feliciano](https://idahobe.org/staff/christina-feliciano/) - Christina Feliciano is North Idaho’s Business Development and Project Manager for Idaho Business for Education Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP). She has over 10 years’ experience with the workforce industry as a Workforce Consultant with the Idaho Department of Labor. During Christina’s time with the Idaho Department of Labor she administered Adult, Dislocated Worker and Youth - [Angie LeBlanc](https://idahobe.org/staff/angie-leblanc/) - Angie LeBlanc is the Business Development and Program Manager for Eastern Idaho. In this role, she works to connect industry members and students to cultivate relationships and develop registered apprenticeships. Angie is no stranger to education as she spent over a decade working in various positions for Bonneville School District 93. This is where her - [Anne-Marie Henning](https://idahobe.org/staff/anne-marie-henning/) - Anne-Marie Henning brings over 30 years of experience in corporate and nonprofit financial operations, tax, and compliance to her role as Financial Officer for the Idaho STEM Ecosystem. Her extensive career in the semiconductor industry fueled her passion for STEM education as she realized the importance of STEM in developing a strong and successful workforce. - [Vicky Fajardo](https://idahobe.org/staff/vicky-fajardo/) - Vicky Fajardo is the Business Development and Program Manager for the Idaho Business for Education Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP) in the Magic Valley. She is passionate in bridging the gap between diverse communities, empowering individuals and fostering stronger relationships to create a thriving ecosystem in Idaho. With a broad background in human resources, business consulting in marketing, business - [Dr. Megan Simila](https://idahobe.org/staff/dr-megan-simila/) - Megan comes to IBE from the federal grant world having worked with Boise State’s TRIO Upward Bound program for over ten years as an Educational Specialist and Summer Internship Coordinator. She was elected president of the Idaho Association of TRIO Professionals in 2020, and while serving developed a deeper appreciation for the power of effective - [Trisha Mick](https://idahobe.org/staff/trisha-mick/) - Trisha Mick was born and raised in the Treasure Valley and spent many weekends and summers growing up exploring Idaho forests during family camping trips. Trisha graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning. She's spent over 15 years working - [ReBekha Lulu](https://idahobe.org/staff/rebekha-lulu/) - ReBekha Lulu was born in Boise, Idaho and graduated from Idaho City High School in 2005. After a series of adventures, including teaching overseas with the JET Program in Okinawa, she returned to Idaho to begin her formal teaching career. In 2014, she began teaching sixth-grade self-contained classes in her hometown of Idaho City and - [Ashley Schaffner](https://idahobe.org/staff/ashley-schaffner/) - Ashley Schaffner started her journey in STEM as a first grade teacher in Blackfoot, Idaho. She spent 7 years teaching there and had the opportunity to serve as team lead, mentor teacher, and technology coordinator for the school. During her time as a first grade teacher, Ashley developed a Computer Science curriculum dedicated to introducing - [Erin Lanigan](https://idahobe.org/staff/erin-lanigan/) - Erin Lanigan is a strong believer in community and learning, and is passionate about supporting and growing educational opportunities throughout Idaho. As a professional, she has leveraged many unique experiences built throughout her diverse background. Born and raised in Montana, and graduating with a BA from Carroll College in Helena in 2005, Erin created her - [Erica Compton](https://idahobe.org/staff/erica-compton/) - Erica Compton is a 4th generation Idahoan with almost 30 years of experience in the area of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education. Her early career experiences include working with special needs students from inner city neighborhoods in San Francisco, overseeing afterschool STEM learning centers across the Northwest, and co-founding an educational VR company - [Carolyn Holly](https://idahobe.org/staff/carolyn-holly/) - Carolyn Holly enjoyed a 33-year career at Idaho’s #1 TV station, KTVB. She became one of Idaho's most experienced and best-known television personalities through her sincere approach to news and her community. Carolyn is thrilled to be the current Vice President of Development for Idaho Business for Education. Carolyn is also highly involved in community - [Elaine Leedy](https://idahobe.org/staff/elaine-leedy/) - Elaine Leedy joined Idaho Business for Education in August 2020 as Executive Admin to the Vice President of IBE’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. Elaine has had an extensive career as a Legal Secretary and Legal Assistant in the San Francisco Bay Area and as a business owner for two destination art galleries in Sausalito and Mendocino, ## Videos - [Age of Agility: CWI Work Based Learning Center, Youth Apprenticeship Program and Close](https://idahobe.org/videos/age-of-agility-cwi-work-based-learning-center-youth-apprenticeship-program-and-close/) - In this segment of the Age of Agility Summit we explore work based learning with Marie Price, Director of Training and Development at Idaho Forest Group, Crystal Zmak, Director of Dealership Development at Teton Toyota and Sean Kelly, Assistant Principal at Dennis Technical Education Center. We also take a look at the concepts behind the - [Age of Agility: How We Build Our Own Workforce](https://idahobe.org/videos/age-of-agility-how-we-build-our-own-workforce/) - Kent Oram, CEO of Idaho Central Credit Union and Ben Davidson, Sr. Vice President of Human Resources at Idaho Central Credit Union discuss strategies for creating a healthy environment for maintaining a productive workforce. - [Age of Agility: Tony Wagner and Tim Taylor on Idaho's Durable Skills Report](https://idahobe.org/videos/age-of-agility-tony-wagner-and-tim-taylor-on-idahos-durable-skills-report/) - Tony Wagner and Tim Taylor discuss how education can help meet the needs for 21st Century workforce demands. - [Age of Agility: Open & Governor Little's Keynote Address](https://idahobe.org/videos/age-of-agility-open-governor-littles-keynote-address/) - What does it take to meet the demands of 21st Century workforce needs? Governor Brad Little shares his insights on the future of work in Idaho. - [Idaho Business for Education - "Our Mission"](https://idahobe.org/videos/our-mission/) - Idaho Business for Education (IBE) is focused on setting students up for success in school, work, and life while creating the workforce Idaho employers need. Learn more about their work and impact at www.IdahoBE.org. - [2021 Legislative Academy with General McKinley](https://idahobe.org/videos/2021-legislative-academy-with-general-mckinley/) - General McKinley speaks about the importance of social-emotional learning to student academic success. General McKinley was a member of the Aspen Institute National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development and former president of the Air Force Association. He participated in the Aspen Institute commission that wrote “A Nation at Hope”, a report about the - [Idaho News 6 - "IBE Launching Community Activation Project"](https://idahobe.org/videos/idaho-news-6-ibe-launching-community-activation-project/) - Idaho Business for Education (IBE) is launching an effort to get computers and internet connections to Idaho students. ## Resources - [EVERYDAY LEADERSHIP: Inspiring the Success of Our Low-Income Youth](https://idahobe.org/resources/everyday-leadership-inspiring-the-success-of-our-low-income-youth/) - Objective Everyday Leadership is a collaborative effort created to provide low-income 5th and 6th grade youth with the skills and self-confidence they will need to graduate from high school and attain a post-high school education. Importance Students who fail to graduate from high school or achieve post-high school training are frequently unprepared for the workplace - [Idaho School Readiness](https://idahobe.org/resources/idaho-school-readiness/) - Research shows that only 51 percent of Idaho’s students are ready to learn when they enter kindergarten. IBE supports the adoption of the Idaho School Readiness Act which gives parents the choice between home or off-site programs to get their four-year-olds ready to learn in kindergarten. - [Idaho Education Trends](https://idahobe.org/resources/idaho-education-trends/) - [Idaho State Board of Education](https://idahobe.org/resources/idaho-state-board-of-education/) - [Idaho Department of Education](https://idahobe.org/resources/idaho-department-of-education/) - [Idaho Core Standards for Idaho Kids](https://idahobe.org/resources/idaho-core-standards-for-idaho-kids/) ## Categories - [Business](https://idahobe.org/category/business/) - [Education](https://idahobe.org/category/education/) - [Legislature](https://idahobe.org/category/legislature/) - [Breaking News](https://idahobe.org/category/breaking-news/) ## Types - [Resource](https://idahobe.org/resource-type/resources/) - [White Paper](https://idahobe.org/resource-type/white-papers/)