Kevin: Public Ed Situation Gloomy

In supporting state superintendent Tom Luna’s education overhaul plan, the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation has also engaged in stunning public self-assessment. “The reform efforts we’ve funded have not worked, have had limited impact, or were never systematically adopted,” the foundation said in a full-page ad that appeared in Sunday’s Statesman. “At all levels and repeatedly, we’ve met with political indecision, territorialism, and a lack of political will. The historical focus on barriers, challenges, excuses and maintaining the status quo permeates our education system and stakeholder groups.” This, after 15 years and $400 million in investments, is nothing short of a remarkable statement. It’s a doom-and-gloom argument for education reform. For Idahoans who have been led to believe — by the likes of Luna and the foundation — that Idaho schools have provided good value on a modest budget, it’s all a little bit jarring/ Kevin Richert , Idaho Statesman. More here .

Question: Has Idaho provided a good public education for members of your family?