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Idaho ranked worst for education

By Betsy Z. Russell
Staff writer
January 10, 2008

Idaho is tied for last place in the nation for its education quality, according to a new study published Wednesday by Education Week.

The ranking showed Idaho, with a grade of D+, in a six-way tie for last place with Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon and the District of Columbia. Washington scored at the national average, earning a “C.”

The “Quality Counts 2008” survey, funded by the Pew Center on the States, looked at everything from preschool to college and career preparation.

Idaho State Superintendent of Schools Tom Luna said he thought his controversial teacher merit pay plan, which so far hasn’t gained much traction with state lawmakers, would improve Idaho’s scores by expanding teacher mentoring and other measures. He also noted that Gov. Butch Otter has proposed expanding scholarship opportunities in the state.

“We’re working to address those issues,” Luna said.

Idaho got its worst grade, an F, in the “transitions and alignment” category, which included early childhood education, college readiness and economy and workforce.

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