WYOMING — Susan Tave Zelman, Ohio superintendent of public instruction, will visit Madeira, Mariemont and Wyoming city schools today as part of a tour of 39 districts statewide that have an “effective” rating on state report cards.

        The districts have achieved all 27 indicators that measure a school district's effectiveness. Those indicators are based on proficiency test results, attendance and graduation rate.

        In addition, these three districts have been recognized by the state board of education and the Ohio Department of Education for achieving and maintaining an effective rating since state report cards were established. Only six districts statewide have maintained this three-year streak.

        The three districts will host a reception and dinner with Dr. Zelman, superintendents, board of education members and district personnel.
       

Finance guru speech

               HAMILTON — Columnist Jane Bryant Quinn will speak today at 4 p.m. at Miami University's Hamilton Campus, 1601 Peck Boulevard, for the fourth annual Harry T. Wilks Lecture Series.

        Ms. Quinn is one of the nation's leading commentators on personal finance and was cited as one of the “25 Most Influential Women in America” by the World Almanac. She will discuss the current national economy and what it means to consumers.
       

Uniforms' 1st year

               MOUNT HEALTHY — Students at Mount Healthy North Middle School begin their school year today with a new look. Collared white shirts and black pants replace baggy pants, T-shirts and jeans.

        The look is part of a new dress code to increase safety and reduce distractions and discipline problems.

        The proposal was researched by social studies teacher Ted Bieresdorfer, who is chairman of the school's safety and discipline committee. Mount Healthy's board of education voted last year to allow schools the flexibility to change dress code guidelines. The ultimate goal is to increase student achievement.
       

Congressman visit

               DELHI TOWNSHIP — Congressman Steve Chabot will visit C.O. Harrison School to introduce the school's “Character First” program 9 a.m. Wednesday. He will focus on “Attentiveness,” one of the 49 character qualities.

        Also speaking will be Iris Cole, director of Communication for the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

        In becoming a “school of character,” C.O. Harrison extends the boundaries of the “City of Character” resolution passed by Cincinnati Mayor Charlie Luken and City Council last September.

        For information, call Mark Koerner, principal, or Shirley Dix, counselor, at 922-1485.
       

Golf outing sign-ups

              

        SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Finneytown Schools' Boosters will sponsor a golf outing 2 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Glenview Golf Course, Springfield Pike and Sharon Road.

        Four-person scrambles for men and women will be featured. The $70-per-player fee includes golf, steak dinner, door prizes and trophies. To register your foursome, call Greg Fallath, 541-7162.
       

        Submit items for In The Schools by faxing 768-8340 or e-mail ckranz@enquirer.com.
       

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