The Cincinnati Enquirer

MARIEMONT - The Mariemont Board of Education has been advised to consolidate two elementary schools to most efficiently use its school facilities while maintaining its reputation as an excellent school district.

Miami University's Department of Educational Leadership this week recommended closing Fairfax Elementary and relocating its students to Mariemont Elementary, effective with the 2003-04 school year.

Mariemont asked the university to study ways the district can best use its money without affecting education. Mariemont has the top rating, "Excellent," this month on the state's Local Report Card.

The school board also has asked Superintendent Gerald Harris and Treasurer Natalie Lucas to develop a financial/educational plan for the next school year and the future.

The board has scheduled a special meeting at 7:15 p.m. Feb. 4 at Mariemont High School, 3812 Pocahontas Ave., to receive the report from the superintendent and treasurer.

Since the community voted down an operating levy last May, the board has been grappling with financial issues. The district has cut $1.4 million in expenses to balance its budget.