Former Dist. 214 member supports Cooper

As a former District 214 school board member, numerous people have asked me who I endorse in the upcoming election. As I have personally served with Miriam (Mimi) Cooper Spickard, I am very comfortable recommending and endorsing her and I can explain to you why I endorse Mimi.

While I was on the board Mimi served not only as vice president but as president of the board and although often times our views differed it was clear she still respected my fiscally conservative perspective and understood complex issues.

I believe as a board member she offers the following to the community:

• Mimi commands the respect of her fellow board members;

• Mimi is always well-informed and would give countless hours of time in addition to what was expected of her;

• Mimi truly has a desire and intention to improve the quality of education;

• Mimi has a historical reference (20 years of board service) which cannot be replaced and she understands why policies are in place and why they are succeeding or failing;

• Mimi listens to all sides on an issue;

• Mimi's educational background as an attorney provides her the ability to understand the complexities of union negotiations and contracts.

Because of the above stated, I endorse and support Miriam (Mimi) Cooper Spickard from my own personal experience I hope she is re-elected to the District 214 board.

Gary A. Newland

Arlington Heights