Statement from the Princeton Board of Education
March 12, 2026
The Princeton Board of Education and Superintendent G. Elgin Card have worked in good faith for months to secure a continuing employment agreement. On February 23, 2026, the Board presented a robust proposal that included a two-year program with an option for a third year. Throughout this process, the Board’s priority has been to complete appropriate due diligence and remain fiscally prudent on behalf of our taxpayers and school community.
Ultimately, the proposed contract was not accepted.
All five members of the Board of Education respect the decision and are focused on student success. The Board will continue to work with Superintendent Card through the remainder of the school year to maintain stability for students, staff, and families.
To ensure continuity of leadership, the Board has been working to secure Mari Phillips as interim superintendent, with the goal of her entering into a full superintendent contract.
Dr. Mari Phillips retired from Princeton in 2023 after serving as the Associate Superintendent of the Princeton City School District. She has a strong understanding of the district and its history, having worked there for over 40 years and held various positions. Dr. Phillips served as a teacher, counselor, and building administrator before moving to the central office and taking the student services director, assistant superintendent, and associate superintendent positions.
The Board is confident that Dr. Phillips will step seamlessly into the lead role at Princeton and will bring her passion for teaching and her understanding of the mission and strategic goals, which she helped develop and support both during her tenure and as a consultant with High AIMS Consortium over the past three years.
As outlined in the strategic plan, the District will remain focused on academic excellence, affirmation and belonging, effective communication, health and safety, and responsible stewardship of district resources. The months ahead will include continued dialogue around facilities, finances, and future planning, along with many more opportunities to celebrate student and staff successes.
About Princeton City Schools
The mission of Princeton City Schools is “Empowering each student for college, career, and life success.” The Princeton Advantage is built on shared leadership, opportunity, and a commitment to excellence for every student.
Princeton City School District is known for top-rated schools and strong academic programs, as well as arts, music, and athletics. The District continues to exceed state standards and shows sustained upward momentum. Princeton High School earned a 4.5-star State Report Card rating for the third consecutive year, and the District Graduation Rate improved from three to four stars, with PHS earning five stars. Princeton Middle School improved to four stars. Across our eight elementary schools, all buildings meet state standards and are rated three stars or higher.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Because this is a personnel matter, the Board will not discuss additional contract details. The contract details are contained in the Board minutes. The vote was unanimous (5 for, 0 against).
The Board of Education will work with the superintendent to ensure an orderly transition and will share information about interim leadership and the superintendent search process as soon as those details are finalized.