By Jennifer Mrozowski
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Two educators nabbed the top spots on the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education Monday night.

Florence Newell, an associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, was elected as president, while Harriet Russell, a former Cincinnati Public Schools teacher, was elected vice president.

Both votes were unanimous.

Newell is also a former Sycamore Schools elementary teacher who holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. She served as the board's vice president last year and is serving her second four-year term on the board.

Newell takes the place of Sally Warner, a longtime parent activist, who served a year as president.

"She's the best-qualified candidate," said Sue Taylor, president of the Cincinnati Federation of Teachers union. "No other board member has the depth and expert knowledge of teaching and learning."

Newell takes the helm as the 40,347-student Cincinnati school district plows forward with its $1 billion construction project. The district plans to build 35 new schools and renovate 31 more over the next decade.

At the same time, the district continues to struggle with student achievement. The state last year labeled Cincinnati Public Schools in "academic emergency," the lowest possible state academic rating.

Newell, a strong supporter of teachers and an advocate for more teacher training, said better student performance is the top goal in the coming year.

"The number one priority is to continue to improve academic achievement for all students of the district," she said, "and also to continue to acquire the resources to operate the district."

As the district forges ahead with its building project and works to raise student achievement, Newell said it's imperative to keep the community informed.

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E-mail jmrozowski@enquirer.com