Endorse: Gordon, McGrory, Schilling, Vickers in Libertyville District 70

Libertyville Elementary District 70's board of education is likely to grapple with negotiating a new teacher contract, accommodating a likely influx of new students from several residential developments and hiring a top administrator within the coming years. Voters are fortunate to have plenty of enthusiastic and dedicated candidates for the board that will take on those challenges.

Eight are running for four 4-year seats in the April 4 election. The Daily Herald endorses board president Tom Vickers, incumbent Wendy Schilling and newcomers Josh Gordon and Timothy McGrory. Also running are Chris Coughlin, Marc Grote, Kellen Merchen and Adam Phillips.

Vickers, a lawyer, is a smart and well-prepared leader who is respectful of differing opinions and keeps the board moving forward. His experience will serve the community well. Likewise, Schilling, an assistant Cook County public defender, deserves re-election. She says representing citizens who don't have children in District 70 is one of her concerns.

Gordon, an MBA and former Navy officer, has volunteered as a member of District 70's curriculum advisory and strategic planning committees. His priorities include posting video recordings of board meetings for the community, minimizing standardized testing and preparation as much as possible, adding language instruction at an earlier age and expanding STEAM education, an integration of science, tech, engineering, the arts and math.

McGrory, an attorney, similarly has held positions on District 70 committees. He has experience with a law firm that represented schools, though not District 70. That expertise makes him a good choice for the board of education.