Legislature Passes Troubling Liability Immunity Bill The centerpiece of the special (officially “extraordinary) legislative session called by Gov. Brad Little was developing legislation to grant immunity from liability to school boards and businesses. What resulted was House Bill 6, introduced by Rep. Julianne Young, R-Blackfoot, and passed by both chambers of the legislature almost completely…
Julie Underwood is the essence of the self-made, do-it-all educator. Classroom teacher? Check. Debate coach? Check. Motivated by student success? Check. Adaptable to the changes brought about by COVID-19? Check. A strong proponent of the value of the IEA and her local education association? Check. She is teaching ninth-grade English at Kimberly High School this…
The shift to emergency instruction this spring was an adjustment for educators. And for parents. But what about those who are both? In this IEA REPORTER interview, we spoke with members Sally Mitchell from Boise and Lacey Watkins from Moscow. They share their stories about the challenges created by the unexpected move to online education…
Educators Rally to Support Their Students Routines for school schedules and daily life have been turned upside down by the COVID-19 public health crisis and the steps taken to protect the safety of Idaho educators, students, and communities. The resulting turmoil has made the 2019-2020 school year one professional educators will not soon forget. Once…
Each year the Idaho Education Association bestows annual awards to deserving members and others who have positively impacted Idaho students and public education. The awards are presented to candidates who “have made a special and unique contribution to the cause of public education over an extended period of time, particularly over the last year.” Due…
School psychologist Samantha Hoggatt has many passions in life. She and her husband, Samuel (yes, they are both named Sam) like to camp, hike, snowshoe, and participate in a wide range of outdoor activities. She is currently training for the Coeur d’Alene Marathon and hopes to tackle the Ironman Triathlon when it comes back to…