Vote for independence in Dist. 59 challengers

The Daily Herald's endorsement of candidates Courtney Lang, Randall Reid and Barbara Somogyi for the CCSD59 School Board is disappointing. Since historically, these candidates have supported the administration and school board's past decisions, it is difficult to understand the Editorial Board's recommendation.

The district's decision to write its own curriculum for core subjects, the Dual Language Program policies and financial decisions have contributed to many of the issues that the district faces. At school board meetings, Courtney Lang has spoken in support of the administration's curriculum approach and Dual Language Program, and Randall Reid has spoken in support of the Dual Language Program.

Current board member Barbara Somogyi, has not called for a review of these policies. Only recently, as school board candidates, have they raised concern regarding these issues. How are voters to believe that once elected, they actually will lead and support changes to these programs?

Jim Goranson attended school in District 59, and has experience under former superintendents. Dan Naumowicz, a Navy veteran, is a former ESL student who came from a low-income family, and realizes how an ESL Program can help students move up the socioeconomic ladder. Patti Petrielli, is a substitute teacher in the district. Why would this disqualify her as a board member, if she adheres to the state's guidelines regarding teaching and being a board member?

Wouldn't it be better to have classroom experience instead of being presented a "dog and pony" show during a prearranged visit?

With the challenges that School District 59 faces, Jim Goranson, Dan Naumowicz and Patti Petrielli will provide the independence and courage to challenge the status quo and collaborate with other board members to identify and implement policies that put School District 59 on the path to success.

Daniel Makowski

Arlington Heights