Idaho Senate passes teacher evaluations bill

BOISE (AP) - Lawmakers in the Idaho Senate have approved legislation to clarify when parents can start weighing in on teaching evaluations.

The bill cleared the chamber Wednesday on a unanimous vote. It is among a series of tweaks being considered by lawmakers working to refine a massive education overhaul that was signed into law last year, with backing from public schools chief Tom Luna.

The plan says at least 50 percent of a teacher's job evaluation will be based on student achievement starting July 1, and parental input will also be a factor. Republican Sen. John Goedde of Coeur d'Alene says to some school districts, the law was unclear as to when parents become involved.

Legislation now headed to the Idaho House clarifies that parental input also comes into play July 1.