For Dist. 211 school board: Brandt, Robertson, Burke, Gerber

There is no shortage of committed, thoughtful candidates running for four seats on the Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 board.

Palatine resident George P. Brandt is an incumbent who forcefully argues he is beholden to no one and should win support because the budget is balanced with a healthy reserve and the schools are succeeding. Schaumburg Realtor Richard Gerber was appointed to the board, has children in the district and says he’s ready to make the tough financial calls ahead. Palatine resident Bill Robertson is an impressive young school assistant principal in Rockford who knows schools inside out. Mucia Burke is an active parent who says she will stand for students and what she believes even when it’s lonely.

Rolling Meadows resident M. Bryan Neal is a thorough contender who is focused on funds and educational excellence. Inverness resident Charles Fritz is a knowledgeable former board member who wants to make sure the district remains exceptional for his grandchildren and others.

In fact, we have misgivings about only one candidate, Roman Golash of Palatine. We’re concerned he very much wants particular points of view taught, rather than teaching students to think critically about all points of view.

The remaining candidates all offer great promise, but Gerber, Brandt, Burke and Robertson will bring fiscal strength and fresh perspectives to the district.