The Princeton Board of Education appointed an interim treasurer at a special meeting July 23, three weeks before the first day of school. The agenda listed the action as "Approval to Appoint Treasurer Pro Tempore" but did not name the appointee, and official minutes have not yet been posted.

Christine Poetter served as district treasurer as recently as June 29, when she presented a financial forecast to the board. The district has not publicly stated whether Poetter departed, retired or is on leave.

The board also entered executive session to discuss employment and compensation of a public employee under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1).

Financial backdrop

The treasurer vacancy arrives against a challenging fiscal picture. At the June 29 special meeting, the board reviewed a forecast showing student enrollment declining for the second consecutive year, with further drops projected for fiscal year 2027. The general fund cost per pupil exceeded $18,000, and cash on hand is projected to fall below the board's policy threshold by fiscal year 2029. Property tax revenue came in $1.5 million above estimates, a partial offset.

Board members Jon Simons, Jodi Kessler, Gina Moore and Jada Eley voted unanimously on all items at that June 29 meeting.

Leadership turnover

The treasurer vacancy adds to broader leadership changes. The board approved a separation agreement with the previous superintendent on June 29 and a bridge contract running through July 31. Dr. Mari E. Phillips, who spent more than four decades with Princeton City Schools as a teacher, counselor and administrator, takes over as superintendent August 1. She has framed the coming year around the theme "Every Student, Every Opportunity" in her back-to-school letter to families.

First day of school

August 13 is the first day for new enrollees, students in grades 1-5, and students in grades 6 and 9. All other students report August 14. PreK and kindergarten students start August 17.