Idaho State Department of Education

News Releases

– Guest opinion: Don’t rely on luck to address teens’ challenges. Invest in social-emotional learning January 23, 2020

(BOISE) – Our lives are defined by moments, especially the ones we never see coming. My compelling moment – the moment that gave me my mission as an educator -- was on an October afternoon in 2014. I remember putting on my backpack as I watched my athletes load the bus after cross country practice. My phone kept ringing and ringing, and I struggled to find it in my backpack. I had missed three phone calls from my 18-year-old son Keegan, who was a freshman at BSU.

– SDE announces student winners of ‘future’ art contest January 23, 2020

(BOISE) – Young Idaho artists with big dreams for their futures got a moment in the spotlight Thursday when Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra Thursday presented her 2021 budget request to the Legislature’s Joint Finance-Appropriations committee.

• Future art first place, Luke Howard of Idaho Arts Charter School
• Future art second place, Yebom Yi of Mountain Home High
• Future art third place, Ashlyn Alexander of Mountain Home High

– Superintendent Ybarra lays out student-focused budget request to JFAC January 23, 2020

(BOISE) – Improving Idaho students’ ability to learn and succeed is at the heart of each priority listed in Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra’s proposed public schools budget for 2021.

– Idaho’s innovative mastery network expands, looks to the future January 20, 2020

(BOISE) – Idaho’s shift to a mastery-based learning model is going strong, with new schools and school districts joining the Idaho Mastery Education Network. After the 2019 Legislature approved a bill to lift the cap on participation in the mastery-based network, the number of participants more than doubled. Today, more than a quarter of Idaho’s school districts and 12 percent of the state’s charter schools are working on new, innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

• Idaho Mastery Education Network (IMEN) across idaho

– Idaho’s 4-year graduation rate steady; 5-year rate increases January 17, 2020

(BOISE) – Idaho’s four-year graduation rate for the Class of 2019 remained steady, coming in at 80.7 percent, compared to 80.6 percent in 2018. The percentage of students who graduated in five years increased from 82.0 percent to 82.8 percent, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Friday.

• Class of 2018 5-Year Graduation Rate
• Class of 2019 4-Year Graduation Rate

– Superintendent Ybarra supports Gov. Little's FY 2021 education agenda January 6, 2020

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra is, once again, pleased that Gov. Brad Little has made education a top priority. In his annual State of the State address Monday, the governor laid out his agenda for education, which aligns with Superintendent Ybarra’s continued commitment to supporting Idaho schools and students to achieve.

– Idaho State Department of Education announces holiday closures December 23, 2019

(BOISE) – State Department of Education offices will be closed on the following dates:

– SDE seeks waivers for recently rescinded program policies December 20, 2019

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs (SDE, CNP) has submitted multiple waiver requests to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) for recently rescinded policy waivers as issued in SFSP 01-2019 Summer Food Service Program Memoranda Rescission, October 11, 2018.

– Superintendent nominates two Idaho students as Presidential Scholars December 20, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra has nominated two Idaho high school seniors to be Presidential Scholars.

– Idaho's new online report card gets high marks nationally – again December 18, 2019

(BOISE) – Idaho is one of three “States to Watch” highlighted in the latest Time to Act report from the national Data Quality Campaign (DQC).

• Data Quality Campaign (DQC) Time to Act 2019 Report

– Idaho schools honored as national Distinguished Schools, Blue Ribbon nominees December 18, 2019

(BOISE) – The Child Nutrition Division of the Idaho State Department of Education today published newly updated lists of Centers and Family Day Care Homes that participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

– SDE publishes lists of centers and family day care homes with food programs December 17, 2019

(BOISE) – The Child Nutrition Division of the Idaho State Department of Education today published newly updated lists of Centers and Family Day Care Homes that participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

– SDE releases results of 2019 Idaho Youth Risk Behavior Survey December 5, 2019

(BOISE) – The latest Idaho Youth Risk Behavior Survey provides encouraging news in some areas of student well-being and reinforces the State Department of Education’s commitment to social-emotional learning.

– Idaho students can Picture My Future through art contest December 3, 2019

(BOISE) – Students in grades 7 through 12 throughout Idaho are invited to envision their future after high school and share that vision with artwork that answers the question, “What Does College or Career Ready Mean to Me?”.

• 2018 1st Place entry by Rebekah Smith of Malad High School

– SDE announces student winners of 2019 holiday card contest December 2, 2019

(BOISE) – This year’s holiday cards from the Idaho State Department of Education will feature a Bonneville County fifth-grader’s detail-rich holiday scene of home and hearth.

• 2019 Grand Prize Winner by Lily Wayment, American Heritage Charter School

– Guest opinion: Supporting Idaho schools and students November 26, 2019

(BOISE) – In more than 20 years as an educator, I have learned that one of the most important things we can do – as parents, family members, teachers or community leaders – is to show our children how much we value their education by supporting and celebrating their hard work and success. Our support, individually and collectively, makes all the difference.

– Statewide, district early reading test results show improvements November 15, 2019

(BOISE) – Statewide, district and school final results are out for the fall Idaho Reading Indicator. Like the preliminary statewide data released in October, the results show that more Idaho students in first through third grade are performing at grade level than was demonstrated in the new IRI’s first outing last fall.

• Fall 2019 IRI Results Charts

– 2019 ACT results show more Idaho students meet benchmarks October 30, 2019

(BOISE) – ACT results for Idaho’s 2019 graduating class show consistently higher performance than the national average, and contribute to the continuing conversation about Idaho students’ college readiness, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

– ‘Nation’s Report Card’ shows Idaho students compare well to peers in other states October 30, 2019

(BOISE) – Idaho’s latest scores in the National Assessment for Education Progress (NAEP) provide some encouraging news as the state continues work to improve student performance in reading and mathematics.

– It’s time for Idaho’s K-6 students to submit art for SDE holiday cards October 25, 2019

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education is now accepting Holiday Card Contest submissions from Idaho students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

• 2018 Grand prize winner Julia Wood

– Idaho SDE marks Teen Driver Safety Week with PSA, tips for parents October 23, 2019

(BOISE) – For most young Idahoans, the teenage years bring new independence and flexibility via a driver’s license or permit. That license also brings new risk and responsibility – and the State Department of Education urges teens and families to take those considerations to heart.

– SDE awards grant funds to help 19 Idaho schools upgrade kitchen equipment October 18, 2019

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education has awarded $125,215.47 in federal grant funding through its Child Nutrition Programs to help 19 Idaho schools purchase new equipment for their National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced Thursday.

– Preliminary statewide results from second year of Idaho’s new early reading test reinforce importance of literacy intervention in grades K through 3 October 17, 2019

(BOISE) – Statewide preliminary results are out for the fall Idaho Reading Indicator, which aims to ensure students in kindergarten through third grade are learning to read so they can read to learn.

• Fall 2019 IRI Results Charts

– Superintendent Ybarra to visit Sandpoint High for NIC Roadshow, interview by student journalist October 10, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will visit Sandpoint High School Friday morning, Oct. 11, for the North Idaho College Roadshow and an interview with a journalist from the Cedar Post student newspaper.

– FACE conference brings Elizabeth Smart to Boise, aligns with Safety Symposium October 4, 2019

(BOISE) – Author and activist Elizabeth Smart, who gained unwanted fame as a 14-year-old abduction survivor then went on to become an inspirational advocate for legislation and organizations to safeguard children, heads a varied slate of national and regional speakers at the State Department of Education’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) conference Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 7-8.

– Grants available for ‘21st Century’ Idaho after-school programs October 4, 2019

(BOISE) – The State Department of Education will award about $1.5 million in five-year grants to operate after-school programs across Idaho starting in the 2020-2021 school year.

– Idaho’s 2020 Teacher of the Year teaches PE, champions mental health September 26, 2019

(BOISE) – This morning, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and Governor Brad Little surprised Stacie Lawler in her classroom to announce that Lakeland Junior High School’s health and physical education teacher is Idaho’s Teacher of the Year for 2020.

• Stacie Lawler Headshot

– SDE distributes video PSAs for Suicide Prevention Month September 24, 2019

(BOISE) – Four new public service announcements featuring Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra are being circulated statewide to highlight the importance of emotional health, recognizing the warning signs of suicide and resources that offer help.

• Suicide Prevention PSAs

– Top Idaho math teacher advances to nationals September 11, 2019

(BOISE) – A math teacher from Timberline High School has been selected as the state’s finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

• Jerod Morehouse and Nichole Hall

– Superintendent Ybarra’s 2021 budget ask focuses on needs of students, teachers September 3, 2019

(BOISE) – Teacher pay, social-emotional learning, mastery expansion and literacy are top priorities in Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra’s 2021 budget request for Idaho public schools.

• FY 2021 Public School Budget Request
• Public School Foundation Program

– SDE’s Child Nutrition Programs land $2.3 million in USDA grants August 27, 2019

(BOISE) – This summer, Child Nutrition Programs at the State Department of Education received two large competitive grants from the USDA, totaling more than $2.3 million.

– Idaho’s new school report card sports new features, school achievements August 16, 2019

(BOISE) – The State Department of Education’s revamped K-12 report card, first unveiled in December, is now updated with 2019 assessment results, other data and new features.

– SDE announces updated income guidelines for free and reduced price meals August 12, 2019

(BOISE) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has set new income guidelines for the free and reduced price meals provided to students in schools operating the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, and for free milk in schools operating the Special Milk Program.

– Media invited to attend first-ever Educator Day at Gowen Field Aug. 9 August 6, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and Major General Michael J. Garshak will join forces for the opening ceremony of Educator Day at 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9, at Gowen Field.

– Idaho kids will get Breakfast After the Bell, thanks to grant from No Kid Hungry July 25, 2019

(BOISE) – A new pilot program will provide children in two Idaho elementary schools nutritious breakfasts at the start of their school day via a grant to the State Department of Education.

– SDE leadership institute helps migrant students build confidence, futures July 23, 2019

(BOISE) – Migrant high school students from across Idaho are living in a dorm at Boise State University this week learning about college life and career options, hearing from expert speakers, team-building and visiting a wide range of local businesses.

– Feds approve Idaho’s amendments to education accountability plan July 16, 2019

(BOISE) – State Department of Education (SDE) efforts to help Idaho’s at-risk students and recognize student and school success got a boost this week with U.S. Department of Education approval of amendments to the state’s year-old consolidated plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

• Consolidated State Plan Approval Letter

– 124 Idaho schools to receive fresh fruit and vegetable grants July 9, 2019

Students at 124 schools across Idaho will receive free, fresh fruit and vegetables during the coming school year thanks to state-administrated grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced.

– Spring testing with new IRI shows marked improvements from fall testing July 1, 2019

(BOISE) – Results of the first statewide administration of the new Idaho Reading Indicator (IRI) under Idaho’s new early reading test for students in kindergarten through third grade show significant growth from fall to spring in the 2018-19 school year.

• 2018-2019 IRI Data Charts

– Idaho students’ preliminary ISAT scores for 2019 show improvement July 1, 2019

(BOISE) – The latest statewide results for the Idaho Standards Achievement Test show steady improvement in Idaho students’ proficiency over the past few years, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Monday.

• Preliminary ISAT Results

– Results are available for Idaho students’ SAT scores June 24, 2019

Idaho high school juniors’ 2019 SAT college entry exam scores are in, and they show a general decline from last year’s scores. Analysis of the results will help the State Department of Education understand the trend and this year’s cohort of test-takers, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

• Idaho Summary 2019 SAT School Day

– Eric Studebaker to lead student engagement, safety efforts at SDE June 21, 2019

Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced Friday that Dr. Eric J. Studebaker will join the State Department of Education as director of Student Engagement and Safety Coordination.

– Supt. Ybarra appoints Todd Driver to lead new Content and Curriculum department June 14, 2019

Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra today announced that Todd Driver will be joining the State Department of Education as Director of Content and Curriculum.

– Media opportunities at Idaho Mastery Education Conference June 10-11 June 7, 2019

Interested media representatives are invited to join nearly 350 educators from across Idaho and presenters from all 32 schools in the Idaho Mastery Education Network (IMEN) at the Grove in Boise for the state’s first Mastery Education Conference Monday and Tuesday, June 10-11.

– Learn about student-centered learning at free Mastery Education Conference June 4, 2019

For the past three years, 32 schools in 18 districts across Idaho have explored and embraced a mastery-based approach to learning with help from the State Department of Education. Now all interested Idaho educators have the opportunity to explore this personalized, flexible approach during a free two-day conference.

– SDE announces grants for peer-based suicide prevention programs May 28, 2019

Matt McCarter, head of Student Engagement, Career and Technical Readiness at the State Department of Education for nearly eight years, is taking a major career step, so the SDE will look for a new leader for that important department.

– SDE launches search for new student engagement director May 17, 2019

Matt McCarter, head of Student Engagement, Career and Technical Readiness at the State Department of Education for nearly eight years, is taking a major career step, so the SDE will look for a new leader for that important department.

– Want to teach? Connect with schools at career fair in Coeur d’Alene May 14 May 13, 2019

Aspiring educators will have a one-stop opportunity to meet with prospective employers from Region I and II school districts and charter schools in Coeur d’Alene Tuesday evening, May 14.

– Idaho’s 2019 Presidential Scholars announced May 8, 2019

A high school senior from Boise and one from Rigby have been named as Idaho’s two Presidential Scholars for the class of 2019, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Tuesday.

– Want to teach? Connect with schools at career fairs in Fort Hall, Twin Falls May 6, 2019

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week, and aspiring educators will have a one-stop opportunity to meet with prospective employers from school districts and charter schools in the Blackfoot and Twin Falls areas Wednesday and Thursday, May 8-9.

– Guest Opinion: Idaho Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10 May 3, 2019

As Superintendent, I have the opportunity to visit many classrooms and talk to many Idaho teachers across our great state. What I always see are caring, dedicated, innovative professionals who spend countless hours making sure our kids are learning, growing and achieving. I see rooms, hallways, libraries and playgrounds full of busy, engaged and happy kids.

– Superintendent Ybarra to visit Idaho Falls school during Roadshow Wednesday April 29, 2019

As part of her statewide Legislative Roadshow to discuss the latest education developments with Idaho educators, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will visit Rocky Mountain Middle School in Idaho Falls at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

– Superintendent Ybarra to visit Jerome school during Roadshow Tuesday April 29, 2019

As part of her statewide Legislative Roadshow to discuss the latest education developments with Idaho educators, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will visit Jefferson Elementary School in Jerome at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

– SDE's Legislative Roadshow to sweep southern Idaho, livestream statewide April 24, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and key staff members will meet with educators in Boise, Twin Falls and Idaho Falls next week to discuss the legislative session and the latest Idaho education developments.

– Students from small Idaho school create Easter egg design for White House April 24, 2019

(BOISE) – Four graphic arts students in the tiny Rockland School District saw their colorful design represent Idaho at the White House during this year’s Easter Egg Roll.

• Rockland students with their Easter egg design
• Rockland Easter egg design displayed at the White House

– Six Idaho teens named semifinalists in Presidential Scholars program April 22, 2019

(BOISE) – Six Idaho students have been selected as semifinalists for the U.S. Presidential Scholars program, which recognizes some of the nation’s most accomplished graduating high school seniors.

– SDE kicks off Legislative Roadshow in North Idaho this week April 22, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and key staff members will launch their annual Legislative Roadshow in North Idaho Wednesday and Thursday, April 24-25, to share the latest Idaho education developments with area superintendents, charter school administrators, business managers and other district and school representatives.

– New dates set for South Idaho stops on SDE's Legislative Roadshow April 8, 2019

(BOISE) – This year’s State Department of Education Legislative Roadshow has been rearranged to accommodate an unusually long-running legislative session.

– Want to teach? Connect with schools at Career Fair Tuesday in Nampa April 8, 2019

(BOISE) – Aspiring educators will have a one-stop opportunity to meet with prospective employers from 16 area school districts and charter schools Tuesday evening, April 9, in Nampa.

– National report calls Idaho ‘bright spot’ among new state report cards April 4, 2019

The State Department of Education’s revamped K-12 Report Card caught the eye of the national Data Quality Campaign (DQC), which reviewed all state report cards for its newly released “Show Me the Data” report.

• DQC Show me the Data April 2019 Report

– SDE seeks waiver for administrative and procurement review cycle flexibility April 4, 2019

The Idaho State Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs (CNP) has submitted a waiver request to the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to extend the current three-year Administrative Review Cycle to a five-year review cycle and align procurement reviews to mirror the administrative review cycle.

– State Department of Education Postpones Statewide Legislative Roadshow Until Legislature Adjourns March 29, 2019

Due to the duration of this year’s legislative session, the department will postpone its roadshow events scheduled for April 2, 3 and 4 to a later date. This scheduling change does not impact the roadshow events scheduled in north Idaho for April 24 and 25.

– Superintendent Ybarra kicks off Legislative Roadshow April 2 March 29, 2019

Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and key staff members are hitting the road again this year to discuss the legislative session and all of the latest Idaho education developments, starting with a livestreamed event in Boise Tuesday, April 2.

– Want to teach? Connect with schools at Career Fair Wednesday in Coeur d’Alene March 12, 2019

(BOISE) – Wednesday evening, March 13, aspiring educators have a one-stop opportunity to meet with prospective employers from North Idaho school districts and charter schools.

– SDE issues PSAs, Infographic to highlight education outcomes February 26, 2019

(BOISE) – As we continue our work to help schools and students succeed, it’s important to note that Idaho students and educators already have much to be proud of, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

• 2019 Education Outcomes Infographic
• Full-length PSA
• College Readiness PSA Portion
• NAEP PSA Portion
• Upward Trajectory PSA Portion

– SDE suicide-prevention efforts get boost from donation February 25, 2019

(BOISE) – As part of Suicide Prevention Day at the Capitol, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will accept a $25,000 check from the Suicide Prevention Action Network (SPAN) Tuesday afternoon to help fund the Sources of Strength program.

– Superintendent Ybarra welcomes another big boost in public school funding February 18, 2019

(BOISE) – The Idaho Legislature’s budget-setting committee proposes a $109 million increase in public school funding for the 2019-20 school year, representing a total boost to K-12 funding of well over half a billion dollars since Superintendent Sherri Ybarra took office five years ago.

– Superintendent Ybarra outlines concerns about proposed new funding formula February 7, 2019

(BOISE) – Appearing this afternoon before a joint meeting of the Idaho House and Senate Education Committees, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra outlined her concerns about a proposal to change how the state funds K-12 education.

– Idaho’s Presidential Scholar candidates announced January 28, 2019

(BOISE) – More than 50 Idaho high school seniors from throughout Idaho are in the running as candidates for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, according to the national committee that organizes the program on behalf of the White House.

– SDE announces student winners of Investing in My Future contest January 24, 2019

(BOISE) – Young Idaho artists with big dreams for the future got a shoutout from Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra Thursday during her budget presentation to the Legislature’s Joint Finance-Appropriations committee.

• 1st Place: Rebekah Smith
• 2nd Place: Emilee Martin
• 3rd Place: Taiva Titsworth

– Superintendent Ybarra outlines plans in JFAC budget presentation January 24, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra outlined her vision for the future of Idaho’s public schools Thursday morning in her budget presentation to the Legislature’s Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee.

• Superintendent Ybarra JFAC Budget Presentation

– Guest opinion: The future looks bright for Idaho students January 22, 2019

(BOISE) – Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, understood the connection between perseverance and success. He is credited with saying, “the best way to predict the future is to create it.” I predict a bright future for our students because Idaho is creating an education system that prepares our kids to thrive in the 21st century economy.

– Idaho’s high school graduation rate is on the rise January 17, 2019

(BOISE) – With the Class of 2018, Idaho’s statewide graduation rate topped 80 percent for the first time, continuing a steady, positive trend, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Thursday.

• 2016-2017 Cohort Grad Rate 5yr
• 2017-2018 Cohort Grad Rate 4yr

– SDE seeks sponsors for summer food program that feeds children in need January 17, 2019

(BOISE) – The Child Nutrition Division of the Idaho State Department of Education is looking for partners for this year’s Summer Food Service Program, which provides free meals and snacks to children ages 1 to 18 whose families may not be able to afford to give their children nutritious meals when school is not in session.

– Weigh in on amendments to Idaho’s new education accountability plan January 14, 2019

(BOISE) – Midway through the first school year under Idaho’s new accountability plan, it’s time to look at ways to maximize its effectiveness in helping at-risk students and recognizing success.

– Superintendent Ybarra improves transparency for education spending, other data January 8, 2019

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra is partnering with State Controller Brandon Woolf to make the State Department of Education the third state agency to publish detailed financial records via Transparent.Idaho.gov.

– Superintendent Ybarra lauds Gov. Little's commitment to education January 7, 2019

(BOISE) – As Idaho’s top advocate for schoolchildren, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra responded to Gov. Brad Little’s first State of the State address by expressing appreciation to the new governor for making education his top priority, committing funding and ideas to the shared effort of supporting Idaho schools and students to achieve.

– Treasure Valley teen drivers describe ambitions, win Jiffy Lube scholarships December 27, 2018

(BOISE) – Three Treasure Valley high school students are going into the new year with extra funds for college thanks to the Jiffy Lube Teen Driver Scholarship Program.

• Rachel Garman
• Courtney Ritchey
• Jaiden Westover

– CenturyLink Outage Impacts State Agency Phone Systems in Boise December 27, 2018

(BOISE) – A nationwide communications outage has impacted the ability of customers to call the Idaho State Department of Education and other state agencies in the Boise area.

– Idaho State Department of Education Holiday Closures December 21, 2018

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education (SDE) is closed on the following dates.

– SDE publishes lists of centers and family day care homes with food programs December 21, 2018

(BOISE) – The Child Nutrition Division of the Idaho State Department of Education today published newly updated lists of Centers and Family Day Care Homes that participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

– Idaho schools honored as national Distinguished Schools, Blue Ribbon nominees December 20, 2018

(BOISE) – Four Idaho schools producing stellar results in helping at-risk students succeed have been identified for national recognition by the State Department of Education, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced.

– Superintendent Ybarra names Marilyn Whitney Deputy Superintendent, Communications and Policy December 20, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra today appointed Marilyn Whitney as Deputy Superintendent, Communications and Policy.

– Idaho State Department of Education unveils new K-12 Report Card December 19, 2018

(BOISE) – After nine months of intensive work, the State Department of Education’s revamped K-12 Report Card is available online, providing a user-friendly way for parents, educators and others to access information about schools and districts throughout the state.

– Superintendent Ybarra welcomes chance to address ChalleNGe Academy graduates December 13, 2018

(BOISE) – On Saturday afternoon, Dec. 15, a record 129 Idaho teenagers will cross the stage as graduates of the Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will be on hand to congratulate them.

– Department Seeks Waivers for Recently Rescinded Program Policies December 12, 2018

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs (SDE, CNP) has submitted multiple waiver requests to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) for recently rescinded policy waivers as issued in SFSP 01-2019 Summer Food Service Program Memoranda Rescission, October 11, 2018.

– School Bus Stop Arm Safety Awareness Campaign Launched December 11, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra today released a public service announcement aimed at increasing awareness about school buses and the stop arm law designed to protect students.

– Superintendent Ybarra visits Coeur d’Alene, Rathdrum schools for listening tour December 10, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra is heading to North Idaho this week as part of a “winter tour” to hear from Idaho educators about the issues and priorities that are most important for them.

– Superintendent Ybarra Briefs U.S. Senator Jim Risch in D.C. on Key Student Safety Initiative December 5, 2018

(BOISE) – Today, Idaho State Superintendent Sherri Ybarra briefed U.S. Senator Jim Risch about Idaho’s comprehensive student safety initiative, Keep Idaho Students Safe, KISS for short.

– State Department of Education announces student winners of holiday card contest November 19, 2018

(BOISE) – This year’s holiday cards from the Idaho State Department of Education will feature a West Ada third-grader’s watercolor rendering of a classic winter scene: transporting a holiday tree home from the forest.

• 2018 Holiday Card Contest Winners

– Scores released for Idaho’s new K-3 reading test November 9, 2018

(BOISE) – State, district, and school level results on the state’s new early reading tests were released today.

• New IRI Results (Fall 2018)

– Idaho students invited to envision future through art contest November 7, 2018

(BOISE) – Students in grades 7 through 12 can envision their future and share that vision through the Investing in My Future Art Contest, which runs through Dec. 1.

• 2017 Contest Winner by Eva Luna Lopez Stipe

– Thirteen Idaho schools get USDA grant funds for kitchen equipment October 30, 2018

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education has awarded $132,068.72 in federal grant funding through its Child Nutrition Programs to help 13 schools across Idaho purchase new equipment for their National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced.

– Media advisory: Last school accountability identifications posted online October 26, 2018

(BOISE) – The last of the state’s identifications -- additional targeted support and improvement (ATSI) schools -- under its new accountability system are posted on the Accountability page of the State Department of Education’s website.

• 2018 ATSI Summary
• 2018 ATSI Identifications

– Columbine principal, student safety advocate backs Idaho’s KISS plan October 23, 2018

(BOISE) – Frank DeAngelis, who led the Colorado high school hit by the nation’s first mass K-12 school shooting, says Idaho is on the right track for keeping our students safe.

• Frank DeAngelis Guest Opinion

– Presidential Scholar nominations open for Idaho seniors October 15, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho high school seniors interested in being nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program are urged to submit applications to the State Department of Education by Nov. 2.

• Parent Engagement and Satisfaction Survey 2019 Draft
• Staff Engagement and Satisfaction Survey 2019 Draft
• Idaho State Department of Education Stakeholder Survey Design Committee Feedback

– Idahoans invited to help shape surveys about schools October 15, 2018

(BOISE) – Draft parent and staff surveys, developed by education stakeholders as part of a new Accountability Framework for Idaho schools, are available online for review and feedback until Oct. 26.

• Parent Engagement and Satisfaction Survey 2019 Draft
• Staff Engagement and Satisfaction Survey 2019 Draft
• Idaho State Department of Education Stakeholder Survey Design Committee Feedback

GEAR UP conference in Boise focuses on Advanced Opportunities October 12, 2018

(BOISE) – Nearly 600 education professionals from western states, including 175 from Idaho, will gather in Boise Sunday through Tuesday, Oct. 16-18, for the GEAR UP West conference, which this year will feature the State Department of Education’s Advanced Opportunities program.

SDE’s FACE conference brings wide range of speakers to Boise October 4, 2018

(BOISE) – A former principal of Columbine High School, a therapist who specializes in combatting bullying and an expert who uses sled-dog teamwork principals to strengthen family engagement practices are among the speakers at this year’s Family and Community Engagement Conference.

• 2018 FACE Conference Agenda

Top Idaho science, math teachers advance to nationals October 2, 2018

(BOISE) – Three Idaho elementary teachers, two in science and one in mathematics, will be honored as this year’s state nominees for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST) during the Idaho Math and Science Conference, Oct. 5-6, at Eagle High School.

• Deirdre Abrams, Donnelly Elementary School
• Vonda Franklin, Washington Elementary
• Kellie Taylor, Galileo STEM Academy

Two Idaho elementary schools honored as National Blue Ribbon Schools October 1, 2018

(BOISE) – U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos today recognized two Idaho schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018.

• 2017 SDE Garwood Elementary School
• 2017 SDE Lincoln Elementary School

Idaho students invited to submit art for SDE holiday cards October 1, 2018

(BOISE) – The Idaho State Department of Education is now accepting Holiday Card Contest submissions from Idaho students in grades K-6.

• 2017 SDE Holiday Card Contest Winner

SDE reorganizes programs as student-centered learning department September 25, 2018

(BOISE) – The State Department of Education has reimagined its academics department with an infusion of mastery education principles and teams organized by district size, not subject matter.

• List of Idaho Schools in Each ISSCL Division

Idaho Teacher of the Year helps shape curriculum, community and students’ futures September 10, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho’s newly announced 2019 Teacher of the Year offers a distinctive blend of credentials and characteristics that make him stand out: In addition to being a skilled and passionate high school teacher, he leads the state’s most honored FFA program and serves as mayor of American Falls.

Media advisory: Correction on proposed teacher pay increases September 5, 2018

(BOISE) – The proposed teacher pay increases beyond the fifth year of the Career Ladder in the FY 20 Public Schools Budget were updated today.

State IDs Idaho schools for recognition, support September 5, 2018

(BOISE) – The state today identified schools for recognition and for targeted support and improvement (TSI) based on the performance of 10 subgroups of students. The identifications mark the second of three phases of information released from the state’s new accountability system.

Superintendent Ybarra asks for investments in students, teachers September 4, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra will ask the Legislature to invest in immediate student safety needs, increased support for teachers and continued forward momentum for the state’s plan to improve K-12 education.

• Budget Summary
• KISS Budget Summary
• Teacher Pipeline Initiative
• FY20 Public School Foundation Program Summary

Local, statewide ISAT scores finalized and available online August 31, 2018

(BOISE) – Final 2018 results for the Idaho Standards Achievement Test are now available, posted Friday on the State Department of Education website.

• 2015-2018 ISAT Summary

Idaho plans statewide, opt-in system for special education records management August 21, 2018

(BOISE) – Students, families, and special education professionals across the state are expected to benefit from a new, web-based system to create Individualized Education Programs for students with disabilities.

State IDs schools for support, recognition as part of accountability system August 15, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho will provide coaching, professional development and other supports over the next three years to help elevate student performance in schools identified as underperforming or with low graduation rates by the state’s new accountability system. The state also will invest $6.3 million in improvement grants for underperforming schools that are part of the federal Title I-A program.

• Accountability Indicator Data Files & Summaries

Results from now-retired IRI remain flat, but hopes are high for new test August 10, 2018

(BOISE) – Results from the spring Idaho Reading Indicator – the last time that early reading test will ever be given -- are out, and they reinforce why educators are happy a new, online test will be rolled out statewide this fall, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Friday.

• IRI Data Summary Spring 2018 & three-year comparison

Guest Opinion: Stakeholders are at the heart of initiative to keep Idaho students safe August 10, 2018

By Sherri Ybarra - Superintendent of Public Instruction

• Summary and Chronology of Outreach on KISS

Newly hired SDE policy advisor decides to stay in current job August 3, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra is revisiting plans for a new chief policy advisor after Will Goodman, who had planned to rejoin the State Department of Education Sept. 17, told her he wants to remain with the Mountain Home School District.

Advanced opportunities saved Idaho families $55 million last year August 2, 2018

(BOISE) – With a $13.4 million state investment in providing college-level courses to high school students across Idaho, the State Department of Education’s Fast Forward program saved students’ families more than four times that amount -- $55 million -- in college costs.

• FY 18 Advanced Opportunities Participation Overview

Idaho Indian Education Summit aims to increase cultural understanding July 24, 2018

(BOISE) – On Aug. 1, more than 100 educators, policymakers and tribal leaders will gather in Boise to promote equity and best practices for teaching American Indian students by identifying strategies and gathering cultural knowledge.

• Idaho Indian Education Summit Agenda

No outside study needed to see Idaho’s commitment to improving teacher pay July 23, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra named former chief technology officer and veteran educator Will Goodman to the position of chief policy advisor in her administration.

Superintendent Ybarra names Will Goodman chief policy advisor July 19, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra named former chief technology officer and veteran educator Will Goodman to the position of chief policy advisor in her administration.

Idaho students’ college readiness ranks state in top 5 of national report July 13, 2018

(BOISE) – Students at 121 schools across Idaho will receive free, fresh fruit and vegetables during the coming school year thanks to state-administrated grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced.

121 Idaho schools to receive fresh fruit and vegetable grants July 2, 2018

(BOISE) – Students at 121 schools across Idaho will receive free, fresh fruit and vegetables during the coming school year thanks to state-administrated grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced.

Treasure Valley math, science teachers earn presidential awards June 27, 2018

(BOISE) – Two Idaho teachers are among 140 math and science teachers across the nation selected to win Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Lynnea Shafter teaches special K-5 STEM classes at Barbara Morgan STEM Academy in Meridian, and Susan Darden teaches 6th grade general mathematics at Galileo STEM Academy in Eagle. Darden also teaches a history class.

SDE holds data analysis literacy workshops for Idaho math teachers June 22, 2018

(BOISE) – June is a big month for collaborations between the State Department of Education and Idaho higher education to help math teachers come up with new, effective ways to teach thousands of Idaho children.

SDE online tool presents SAT results for Idaho districts, schools June 22, 2018

(BOISE) – An online analysis tool developed by the State Department of Education allows parents, educators and others to quickly access and compare SAT scores for Idaho schools and school districts.

Preliminary results are out for Idaho students’ SAT and ISAT scores June 18, 2018

(BOISE) – Preliminary statewide results from assessments taken by Idaho students this spring show encouraging increases in students’ proficiency in English and math through the ISAT and a puzzling dip in 11th graders’ performance on the SAT college entrance exam.

• Idaho 2018 SAT School Day Results
• ISAT Proficiency Percentage 2016-2018

Training underway as Idaho schools prepare to roll out new reading test June 13, 2018

(BOISE) – When school starts anew at the end of summer, young students throughout Idaho will take a new evaluation designed to identify how best to help them maximize their reading readiness and skills.

SDE announces grants for peer-based suicide prevention programs across Idaho May 29, 2018

(BOISE) – Students at 17 middle and high schools across Idaho will team with adult advisers to fight against teen suicide by decreasing risk factors and building positive influences, thanks to state Sources of Strength grants.

Superintendent Ybarra names Peter McPherson chief deputy May 17, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra today appointed Peter McPherson as chief deputy superintendent. He replaces Pete Koehler, who retires June 29.

Two Idaho students named U.S. Presidential Scholars May 8, 2018

(BOISE) – A student from Boise High School and one from Moscow High School have been named as Idaho’s Presidential Scholars for 2018, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Tuesday.

Join the State Department of Education in thanking teachers this week May 7, 2018

(BOISE) – Any time is the right time to let teachers know you appreciate them, but that’s doubly true during National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 7 through 11, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

Teacher Appreciation Week: Superintendent Ybarra, SDE staff sub for Idaho educators May 7, 2018

(BOISE) – Next week, 22 teachers in the Treasure Valley and Magic Valley will get time off as part of the State Department of Education’s celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week.

Eight Idaho semi-finalists chosen in Presidential Scholars Program May 3, 2018

(BOISE) – The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, which annually selects top graduating high school seniors from each state, has selected eight semi-finalists for the state of Idaho, all selected for their outstanding achievements.

In D.C. and beyond, Idaho’s Teacher of the Year aims to enhance education May 1, 2018

(BOISE) – For Caldwell teacher Becky Mitchell, this is “the week of weeks.” She’s in Washington, D.C., as Idaho’s Teacher of the Year, spreading the word about Idaho education, networking with other top teachers, absorbing teaching resources at Smithsonian museums, and encountering people and places she previously had only imagined.

Teachers, school districts can connect at SDE career fairs in Nampa, Twin Falls April 25, 2018

(BOISE) – Want to teach in Idaho? Upcoming Educator Career Fairs in Nampa and Twin Falls this week and next each offer a one-stop opportunity to meet with prospective employers from more than a dozen Idaho school districts and charter schools.

Present-tense history: SDE partners with Harvard for innovative pilot program April 20, 2018

(BOISE) – In September, 20 Idaho high school teachers will travel to the Harvard Business School for an all-expense-paid opportunity to help pilot a new way to teach teenagers about American democracy: the High School Case Method Project.

First week of SDE’s Legislative Roadshow winds up in Boise Thursday, will be      livestreamed April 10, 2018

Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra and key staff members are hitting the road to discuss this year’s legislative session and all of the latest education news, from public school finance and technology to Idaho’s recently approved ESSA accountability system, Smarty Ants and the Red Tape Committee.

Idaho parents can sign their pre-K kids up for free online learning now April 10, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho’s new web-based program to help children get ready for reading and kindergarten is ready to roll, and parents are encouraged to sign up online.

‘Nation’s report card’ shows Idaho students compare well to counterparts April 10, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho’s latest scores in the National Assessment for Education Progress provide encouraging news as the state works to increase student performance in reading and mathematics, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

Superintendent Ybarra announces $1.5 million in after-school program grants April 6, 2018

(BOISE) – The State Department of Education has awarded $1.5 million in grants to 10 Idaho schools and communities to give students opportunities for academic achievement and well-being.

Free online program will help Idaho’s young learners get ready for kindergarten April 5, 2018

(BOISE) – Starting next week, all Idaho 4-year-olds will have free access to an animated, interactive reading-readiness program dubbed Smarty Ants through a five-year grant agreement between the State Department of Education and the online literacy program Achieve3000.

Superintendent Ybarra wants to hear from Idahoans about school safety initiative April 2, 2018

(BOISE) – Parents, students, educators and others are invited to weigh in on Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra’s proposed Keep Idaho Students Safe initiative via an online survey.

Feds approve Idaho’s plan for helping disadvantaged students succeed March 29, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra got the news that Idaho’s consolidated plan has officially been approved via a personal phone call Thursday from U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grants are available through SDE March 26, 2018

(BOISE) – Child Nutrition Programs of the State Department of Education is now accepting applications for Idaho elementary schools to participate in the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP).

Idahoans weigh in on state’s standardized testing via survey, focus groups March 16, 2018

(BOISE) – Parents, teachers and administrators from throughout the state are helping the Idaho Assessment Task Force complete its process of studying the state’s standardized testing system and suggesting ways to improve it.

• ASG presentation on statewide survey

Superintendent Ybarra announces multi-pronged school safety initiative March 12, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra called for a greater investment in the safety of Idaho’s students through a new initiative, announced today, focused on increasing support to Idaho’s schools.

• KISS Initiative Overview

Statehouse event showcases mastery-based education in Idaho schools February 21, 2018

(BOISE) – Teachers, students and administrators from across Idaho will gather in the Capitol Rotunda Friday, Feb. 23, to demonstrate a new approach to education that measures student learning by mastery of content.

• Mastery Education Infographic

Need access to educator certification info? New SDE tool gives quick answers February 14, 2018

(BOISE) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra unveiled a new Certification Lookup Tool Wednesday that allows Idahoans to quickly find information about the certification status of teachers, administrators and other education professionals.

Idaho’s graduation rate shows small increase, optimism for future February 7, 2018

(BOISE) – Nearly eight in 10 Idaho high school seniors graduated in 2017, a slight improvement with some bright spots and room to improve, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said Wednesday.

• FY17 Idaho Graduation Rate
• 2017 Graduation Rate for Schools with a Cohort of 10 Students

Treasure Valley kids get STEAM’d at Future Design Academy Feb. 5-8 February 5, 2018

(BOISE) – Students from four Valley school districts will flex their creative and artistic talents in a STEM environment during daylong Future Design Academy sessions over the next three months.

Superintendent Ybarra releases report on Idaho’s education landscape January 22, 2018

(BOISE) – More than one in five new Idaho teachers doesn’t return to their school the following year. Students with the greatest economic and academic needs tend to have teachers with the least experience. These and other results from a new study are an urgent call to action, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said.

• Idaho Educator Landscape Report
• Idaho Educator Landscape Infographic

Superintendent Ybarra hosts open house for lawmakers, public in Capitol January 17, 2018

(BOISE) – Idaho State Department of Education programs and initiatives will take center stage at the State Capitol Monday, Jan. 22, at a legislative open house from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first floor Rotunda.