The Princeton City School District Board of Education has appointed Dr. Mari Phillips as the district’s superintendent, effective August 1, 2026.
Dr. Phillips brings more than 40 years of experience in education, including over four decades of service to Princeton City Schools. During her career, she has served the district in numerous roles, including teacher, counselor, building-level administrator, director of student services, assistant superintendent, and associate superintendent. Her experience across instructional and leadership roles has given her a deep understanding of the district and a lasting commitment to the students, families, and staff it serves.
In addition to her work in K–12 education, Dr. Phillips has helped prepare future school leaders. As an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati, she taught leadership courses for educators pursuing school administration. Over the past three years, she has also served as an educational consultant supporting school districts and leadership teams across the region.
Dr. Phillips has also supported regional collaboration through her work with the High AIMS Consortium, where she facilitated leadership cohorts that bring school leaders together to share effective practices and strengthen instructional leadership.
Dr. Phillips is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and has done post-doctoral work at Xavier University
She serves as a trustee on the board of the Alpaugh Family Economics Center at the University of Cincinnati, which promotes financial literacy for students and businesses through curriculum, teacher training, and research.
Dr. Phillips’ leadership has been recognized across Ohio. In April 2023, she received the Leadership Award from the Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators (OABSE) for her service and impact in the district. She has also been nominated for the Kathe Shelby Leadership Award, which honors leaders who champion the needs of students with disabilities. Throughout her career at Princeton, she has received multiple Dream Keeper Awards recognizing her commitment to students, staff, and the school community.
“Princeton has always held a special place in my heart,” said Dr. Phillips. “I am honored to return and serve the district in this role. I look forward to working alongside our leadership team, teachers, staff, students, parents, and community partners as we continue building on Princeton’s strong tradition of excellence.”
Dr. Phillips is married, and her husband also served as an educator, reflecting their shared commitment to education and to the Princeton community. The district looks forward to this next chapter of leadership under her guidance.