Butch Otter in 2014 Governor's State of the State speeches
On Education:
Replace "K-thru-12" with "K-thru-Career"
My education task force recognized the importance of the increased academic rigor we will see by successfully implementing the Idaho Core Standards. The task force recommendations are already inspiring promise to make the idea
of "K-through-12" education obsolete. The standard for Idaho's commitment to education excellence and workforce readiness can perhaps better be characterized as "K-through-Career."
It is a straightforward but profound way of describing our goals for building out and maintaining a continuum of education and training opportunities. It is a formula that emphasizes local autonomy and
accountability as the keys to success not only for our schools but also for our communities, our economy, and most importantly for our students.
Source: 2014 Idaho State of the State speech
Jan 6, 2014
On Local Issues:
Transmission line over sage-grouse habitat on federal land
With the support of Idaho stakeholders, I submitted a commonsense management plan to prevent the need for listing the sage-grouse under the Endangered Species Act. Idaho's plan also ensures continued multiple-use of these federal lands,
provides predictability for our ranchers and facilitates construction of a badly needed electrical transmission line across southern Idaho.
I've been assured that Idaho will have a seat at the table in crafting a solution to the sage-grouse issue, and I will hold federal officials to that commitment. I encourage your continuing support for our efforts to engage
Washington, D.C. on a whole range of issues that impact how our people live, work, build and pursue their dreams here in Idaho.
Source: 2014 Idaho State of the State speech
Jan 6, 2014
On Principles & Values:
Put aside partisanship & ambition in public interest
The kind of conservative, sustainable policies I [propose] are the best way to protect our traditional values while strengthening the foundation of our future. They are the product of tested, proven leadership that both honors and reflects our
confidence in the people we serve. Our path is as straightforward but as challenging as living within our means. It is as simple but as complex as making government better without growing it bigger. It will require us to put aside partisanship and
personal ambition in the public interest. And in this even-numbered year it will demand of us a willingness to look beyond the next election to Idaho's next generation.Here in Idaho, let us work together to make our State government more about
building partnerships for growth and less about imposing limits on opportunity. That's my hope and my goal as your Governor, for this session and beyond. More importantly, it is our shared charge and our sworn responsibility as public servants.
Source: 2014 Idaho State of the State speech
Jan 6, 2014
Page last updated: Dec 07, 2018