Public Education in Idaho: Does It Meet the Needs of All Students? A Summary Report.

Overview & Synopsis

This report is based on a community forum convened on May 15, 1991, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to obtain information and views on public education in Idaho; its impact on minorities; and, specifically, the high dropout rate of Hispanics, its causes, and possible solutions. Chapter 1 gives the background of a 1979 lawsuit filed by the Idaho Migrant Council against the Idaho State Board of Education. The lawsuit was settled in 1983 when the defendant agreed to implement plans to meet the needs of students with limited English proficiency. However, the state advisory committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights continued to receive complaints alleging a lack of such educational programs. Demographics show that Hispanics are the largest non-White group in Idaho. Chapter 2 consists of summaries of forum presentations by the state superintendent of instruction, local superintendents, principals, teachers, university staff, corporate education and training experts, the director of education for the state correctional institution, and private citizens. The participants addressed the issues of language and cultural differences affecting Hispanics; the urgent need for bilingual, bicultural staff at all levels of education; and the need for a smarter well-educated work force for industry in Idaho. Chapter 3 includes a summary of 24 recommendations proposed by persons appearing before the Idaho Advisory Committee. Appendix A consists of the consent decree and settlement agreement in the aforementioned lawsuit. (TD)