The Coeur d'Alene Education Partnership will host a School District 271 Trustee candidate forum on April 30 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library.

CEP is an independent, nonprofit formed last year. An advocacy group, its focus is on uniting and informing citizens about public education issues in Coeur d'Alene.

The forum will be moderated by members of The Coeur Group, another local nonprofit made up of young, professional, Kootenai County businessmen. Coeur Group members have previously hosted and assisted with other candidate forums including those held for Coeur d'Alene City Council and Sheriff's elections.

"We're excited to be hosting this great opportunity for community dialogue about excellence in public education," said CEP President Amy Evans,in a press release.

"We're also thrilled that The Coeur Group accepted our invitation to moderate the forum. Their expertise in moderating unbiased candidate forums is well respected."

The Coeur Group will have complete discretion over the questions asked of each candidate, stated the press release.

Question suggestions will be accepted from the community and can be sent to 271forum@gmail.com.

The format will be similar to a debate with questions asked of each candidate with a timed response. The goal is to provide opportunities for fluid conversation and for each candidate to connect with the community. Each candidate will also be given time for an opening and closing statement.

"We anticipate a lively dialogue with the candidates about current topics on education in our community," said Jimmy McAndrew, Coeur Group Co-Founder.

Formal written invitations have been sent to the all trustee candidates at their mailing addresses on file with the County Elections Office.

"Neither the Coeur d'Alene Education Partnership nor The Coeur Group take positions in local political issues or endorse candidates, but are engaged in the community and passionate about being informed," said the press release.

The group is encouraging the general public, parents, teachers, students, and all community stakeholders to attend the forum.

The event will be recorded for re-broadcast on CDA TV Channel 19 for those unable to attend in person.