Endorsements: Little, Sales, Pearl, Page for Park Ridge District 64 school board

The atmosphere of the recent past has been one of turmoil in Park Ridge-Niles Elementary District 64.

One school board member resigned in the midst of an uproar over his misogynistic tweets. In addition, controversy arose over the district's treatment of special education students.

On top of all that, the superintendent accepted a position at Palatine Township Elementary District 15, and when she leaves this summer, a number of school principals will be leaving with her.

Given all that, the tasks ahead of the school board will be considerable after the April 2 election. At least three and perhaps four of the school board members will be new, as only one incumbent, Athan "Tom" Sotos is on the ballot.

Three members of the all-male board, including board President Anthony Borrelli, are not running for another term.

We think it's not only time for some fresh faces, but for a few women, too.

Two candidates are squaring off for one two-year term - Park Ridge Library Board member Gareth Kennedy and local League of Women Voters Vice President Rebecca Little, who also is a member of the Park Ridge Youth Commission and Maine Township High School District 207's Community Advisory Council.

It's a close call. They're both well-versed and articulate on the issues.

Our endorsement goes to Little, whose attention to District 64 has been exhaustive for almost two years. She's dedicated, expert and involved and would likely become a leader on the board.

In addition, three 4-year terms are up for election.

We're intrigued by retired teacher Steven Blindauer's experience as a labor contract negotiator in another district and his expressed understanding of all vested interests.

But our endorsements go to Carolina Sales, a bankruptcy attorney who displays good judgment and strong knowledgeable about school issues; Emerson Middle School PTO President Denise Pearl, a member of the District 207 Citizens Advisory Council with a lengthy background as an educator, apparently innate enthusiasm and clear leadership skills; and psychologist Lisa Page, a Park Ridge native with strong insights who understands that positive reinforcement is the best discipline.

Little, Sales, Pearl and Page provide the best opportunity to rebuild trust in District 64 leadership. They have our votes.