Endorsements: Chung, Kowalczyk, Maye, McCluskey for Mount Prospect District 57 schools

The most serious questions facing the Mount Prospect Elementary District 57 schools have nothing to do with policy or curriculum, both areas in which the district has proved stable and successful. Instead, they center on matters of funding and infrastructure that will require a school board capable of adapting to the unpredictable and gaining the confidence of the community at large. Faced with a serious space crunch and looming budget decisions, the district requires a school board that is creative, committed and communicative. Fortunately, all six candidates seeking four open seats on the District 57 board are well qualified to take on the job. They're all dedicated, knowledgeable, thoughtful and independent.

Though even the newcomers demonstrate a high degree of familiarity with the budget, space and curriculum issues in District 57, direct experience is certainly an advantage at such a critical time. On that score, incumbents Eileen Kowalczyk and Gerald McCluskey come to the race with head starts of four years and two years, respectively, They've grown in their service on the board, and the district should take advantage of what they've learned.

Among the four challengers, voters can select from among a former foundation executive who volunteers at the schools, Vicki Chung; two teachers from separate nearby districts, Gwynne Ryan and John Dyer, both of whom offer detailed, positive visions for the district's future; and an attorney with a history of volunteering with and tutoring schoolchildren.

It's a remarkable field, and we're confident that whatever happens April 4, those who don't ascend to the school board will remain active in shaping the decisions facing the schools in coming years.

For our part, we lean toward Chung and Maye. Along with Kowalczyk and McCluskey, they offer a strong blend of volunteer spirit, devotion to the district and professional perspective. They get our endorsement.