BLUE ASH - Four teachers in Sycamore Community Schools have received certifications from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

Sharonville Elementary School 3rd grader Christian Dowdy dances along with his schoolmates and members of the Princeton High School African Drum and Dance Ensemble at his school Thursday. The student dance ensemble gave a performance for the elementary kids. (Jeff Swinger photo)

Greene Intermediate School teachers Jane Overbeck and Karen Crema, along with Sycamore High School teachers Johanna Gordon and Renee Hevia, join 21 other Sycamore teachers who have achieved the prestigious distinction since 1996.

This year, 8,200 U.S. teachers earned National Board status, bringing the nation's total to 32,000 teachers.

Ohio is ranked sixth in the nation in the number of National Board certified teachers, and Sycamore is fifth among Ohio's 614 school districts.

Oak Hills High site of new curriculum plans

DELHI TWP. - Reading, math, science and social studies curricula that align with state standards are being developed for special-needs students at Oak Hills High School, thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Education's Office for Exceptional Children.

Teams of regular and special educators are meeting to align curriculum goals, and develop materials and lesson plans.

Fairfield High holds musical auditions

FAIRFIELD - Auditions for Fairfield Senior High School's production of Hello, Dolly! are set for 2:15 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the school, 8800 Holden Blvd.

Singing rehearsal will be held Thursday, dance rehearsal will be held Friday, with callbacks following dance tryouts. Students need to be present for both.

A help session to prepare for auditions will begin at 2:15 p.m. today at the school. Bring a blank cassette for the music.

Amelia boosters plan annual fund-raiser

AMELIA - Sponsors are being sought for the first annual Amelia Athletic Boosters' Baron Bash fund-raiser.

Members seek donated items for an auction and raffle as well as cash donations for the Bash, set for 6:30 p.m. March 5 at the Batavia Armory.

Those donating $500 or more will receive advertising space in the program, tickets to the Bash and other recognitions. To donate items or order tickets, call 753-5221 or e-mail applegatete@msn.com.

Kings High School hosting blood drive

DEERFIELD TWP. - Kings High School will host its third annual Kings/Hoxworth Blood Drive Friday in the gymnasium, 5500 Columbia Road.

Appointments are available 9-10:30 a.m. or noon-3 p.m. Call Jorge Gonzalez, blood drive coordinator, at 398-8050, ext. 11029.

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E-mail school news to suek@infionline.net or fax to 755-4150.