The new president of the Lawrence teachers union found himself in a tough spot last year when he discovered about $97,000 missing from the organization. After failing to obtain a satisfactory explanation for the shortfall, there was only one responsible action to take: notify the membership and consult the proper authorities.

This is an unfortunate incident that impacts not only the union but potentially many students and teachers associated with the popular teacher who previously headed the Lawrence Education Assn. The new LEA president, Sam Rabiola, has been careful not to make any direct accusations concerning his predecessor, Wayne Kruse, and no charges have been filed. Although many community members continue to hope there is an innocent explanation for the missing funds, the fact that Kruse has refused to address the situation and has now retained legal counsel doesn’t inspire confidence that is the case.

The missing funds, paid to the union by local teachers, is something LEA and its new president must pursue. Whether the loss is innocent or criminal, the union has a responsibility to its members to try to retrieve the money and take whatever legal action is necessary.