The Lawrence teachers union is expected to break its silence today on the proposed $59 million bond for school construction and renovation.

Sixty-five Lawrence Education Assn. delegates will meet at Lawrence High School to determine the union’s position on the bond and decide whether the membership should endorse any of eight candidates for school board.

Elections are April 1.

“These elections — the bond and board — are critical,” said Wayne Kruse, president of LEA and teacher at Quail Run School. “We have to take a stand to say, based on our priorities and our vested interests, here’s what we think.”

Traditionally, he said, the union had supported school bonds.

It hasn’t been LEA’s practice for at least 10 years to endorse school board candidates, he said. If done, the endorsements would be based in part on a survey of candidates that was conducted by LEA members.

Debate about the bond, which includes a controversial plan to close East Heights and Centennial schools, has simmered for months. It was the defining issue of the February primary election for school board and is likely to remain at the forefront when voters go to the polls to elect four board members.

Adela Solis, vice president of LEA and teacher at East Heights, said she expected a spirited debate among the rank-and-file.

“We have teachers all over the board on this,” she said.

Solis, who has spoken out against elementary school consolidation, said she expected the union would throw its support behind the bond.

“I have a lot of good friends who have differing views than I,” she said. “We don’t always agree with the direction the entire group has taken. However the vote comes out, we will support each other.”

¢ Stories, video and a timeline about the school bond issue¢ Video and text profiles and more information about the school board candidates

Scott Morgan, the school board’s president, said he would be surprised if LEA didn’t express solidarity with the board on the bond.

“Teachers recognize what the board is up against,” he said.

There are four antibond and four pro-bond candidates for school board on the ballot. Those in favor are Sue Morgan, Mary Loveland and Scott Morgan, all incumbents, as well as Cindy Yulich. Candidates opposed are Leonard Ortiz, Cille King, Rich Minder and Michael Pomes. Four seats are up for grabs in the election.

The union meeting is at 4:15 p.m. today. It’s not likely to be open to the public, Kruse said.