More transparency needed in Warren District 121

It's too bad that more challengers didn't step forward to compete for four 4-year terms on the Warren Township High School District 121 board.

We have been critical of this board's actions in the past and still challenge its decision to give Superintendent Phil Sobocinski a three-year contract with 6 percent annual raises and 200 extra sick days in a declining economy. It's the kind of move that often leads to an uprising of watchdogs; people tired of seeing public bodies carelessly spend their hard-earned dollars.

Newcomer Jeannette Thommes, a stay-at-home mom, is that kind of candidate. She is learning as she goes. She has done her homework and won't be afraid to speak out as an independent voice on the board. She can weigh the needs of the students with responsibility to the taxpayers.

Douglas Dietrich, a former Woodland Elementary District 50 school board member and parent, ran for the board two years ago. His primary issue - improving test scores - hasn't changed. He also is critical of the superintendent pay package.

Thommes and Dietrich earn our endorsement.

We supported incumbent Charles Crowley in 2005 and respect him as the only incumbent to directly address our criticisms. While we don't agree with his support of the contract, it is clear he believes his vote was the best thing for the district.

Mike Munda, a coach and principal of Lake County's alternative high school, is knowledgeable and devoted to education. He is campaigning with the three incumbents and does not say whether he supports or opposes the superintendent contract, saying he does not have all the information. That is public information. He should be better informed at this stage of the campaign.

Incumbents John Anderson and Larry Stried did not return calls or e-mails inviting them to participate in the endorsement process, so we can't consider them. Anderson is currently board president.

By default, we give our very cautious endorsement to Crowley and Munda, encouraging both to push for more transparency on this board that too often defers all questions to its president.