The Class of 2039 walked through the doors of Princeton City Schools on Aug. 17, as kindergartners and pre-K students joined classmates across Evendale, Woodlawn, Sharonville and Springdale elementaries for the first time.

Their arrival completes the district's staggered start to the 2026-27 school year. Grades 1-5, along with grades 6 and 9 and the Innovation Center, opened Aug. 13. All remaining students in grades 1-12 followed on Aug. 14. Kindergarten and pre-K families had one final weekend before Monday's start.

It is the first school year under Superintendent Dr. Mari E. Phillips, who was appointed effective Aug. 1. In a welcome letter posted July 21, Phillips said the district's new guiding theme is "Every Student, Every Opportunity," writing that it reflects a commitment to providing safe, welcoming environments where students are challenged and supported.

Phillips is not new to the district. She has served Princeton City Schools in multiple roles throughout her career before stepping into the superintendent's office this summer.

Heritage Hill Elementary set the tone for the week when it welcomed grades 1-5 back on Aug. 13 with a Back to School Assembly that the school described as full of energy, hugs and laughs. As we reported Aug. 14, that opening day previewed Monday's kindergarten start across the corridor.

All four corridor communities share the same district-wide schedule. Kindergartners at Heritage Hill, Evendale Elementary, Woodlawn Elementary and Sharonville Elementary all began together Monday, joining older students already settling into classrooms and routines.

The next family-facing milestone comes quickly. Princeton Community Middle School's free 21st Century After-School Program holds a parent information meeting Aug. 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the school, 200 Viking Way, Cincinnati, OH 45246. The program offers activities and a safe after-school environment for middle school students.