Restoring public confidence in Hawai'i's Board of Education begins with the board knowing its ideal role.

As the policymaking body for education in the state, the BOE must not be reduced to micromanaging, and instead must keep its eye on the bigger picture.

That makes the most effective board one that has the broadest possible vision and comprises a good mix of educators, experienced policy hands who understand representative government, and community leaders who genuinely care about our kids.

On Nov. 7, voters will have the opportunity to create that ideal board.

That board also will work with eight holdover members in making key decisions on everything from equitable funding, curriculum and teacher pay, to addressing school violence, fixing crumbling facilities and keeping charter schools on track. And that's just a short list.

With that in mind, The Advertiser believes the following five candidates are well positioned to strengthen and improve the BOE:

Central O'ahu: Eileen Clarke

Windward O'ahu: John Penebacker

O'ahu at-large: Donna Ikeda, Karen Knudsen, Kim Coco Iwamoto

Clarke, our choice to represent Central O'ahu, has been an educator for more than 35 years. Her experience as a teacher, administrator and district specialist gives her a working sense of what our schools need. That practical knowledge should add even greater depth to the board's discussions. She's engaged and has what it takes to get the job done.

Penebacker is the best selection for Windward O'ahu. He retired last December from the state library system after 18 years as an assistant to the state librarian. Prior to that, he served as a member of the BOE from 1980-1988. Penebacker understands the importance of recruiting and retaining good teachers. He appears willing to tackle the tough issues and presents the best option for the Windward side.

Ikeda was the leading vote-getter in the recent primary for the remaining three seats representing O'ahu at-large. Both a former state legislator and a former BOE member, Ikeda brings her experience to a board that has been criticized for its inability to stand up to the Legislature. Ikeda knows the terrain, understands what makes for good policy and would be a vocal advocate for our schools. Her strong presence would be a plus.

Knudsen is the strongest incumbent seeking re-election, and has clearly distinguished herself on the board. She has shown leadership skills and brings a pragmatic approach to the board. Knudsen's strength comes partially from her ability to build consensus on contentious issues. With 16 years on the board, the respect Knudsen commands from her colleagues has made her a leading candidate to become the next board chairwoman.

Our final choice for an open O'ahu at-large seat is Iwamoto.

An attorney and an advocate for foster children, Iwamoto brings a fresh perspective to the board. She has worked with the DOE on sensitive issues such as bullying, which she rightly sees as a form of discrimination. A strong newcomer, Iwamoto is passionate about public education and understands the need to strengthen parental and community involvement in our schools.

The next session of the BOE will be among the toughest in years. Accountability and action will be key themes as the board continues to work in the shadow of the all-encompassing No Child Left Behind Act. Hawai'i will need a Board of Education that is courageous and innovative, and has the political will to put children first. These are the candidates who can help achieve that goal.