The program includes breakout sessions and team building exercises, a yoga session and a guided icebreaker activity.

The Issue: A measure now awaiting action by the governor would permit school districts to bypass taxpayers and fund certain projects.

Our View: The bill removes an important check in the public policy process by letting school boards rack up debt without seeking voter approval.

The Issue: District 99 is planning to begin operating community swim programs at its indoor facilities starting next month.

Our View: Because the previous arrangement failed, officials should take this season off to determine if there’s enough demand to make the effort sustainable.

The Issue: Local municipalities are scrambling to compensate for the loss of tax funds usually distributed by the state.

Our View: Enough is enough. We must elect people to serve in Springfield who can assert leadership to make tough but necessary decisions.

So what is the appropriate gift to give for a 175th anniversary?

It’s no overstatement to say schools are the backbone of any community. Parents looking to purchase a new home often factor the local school system into the equation to make sure their children receive a top-notch education. So when Community Unit School District 201 announced they are considering closing South Elementary School in Westmont, parents were understandably upset.