Education Topped Idaho Legislature’s “To Do” List

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Even though voters handily rejected a series of new education initiatives last fall, that ballot box beatdown didn't stop lawmakers from making education one of the top ticket items during the 2013 Legislature. Some lawmakers made bold moves to reinstate certain parts of the "Students Come First" overhaul.

The House and Senate agreed to carve out new funding for charter schools. In the session's final days, lawmakers put aside differences and ultimately passed a $1.3 billion budget for public schools.

During the 88-day session, the Idaho School Board Association rallied support to end early retirement benefits for teachers and the authority to trim teacher salaries during contract talks — over teacher's union objections. Lawmakers also approved $1.4 million in facilities