Three elementary schools in the Princeton City School District—Glendale Elementary, Heritage Hill Elementary, and Lincoln Heights Elementary—have been recognized as 2024 Momentum Award winners by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW). The prestigious award acknowledges schools and districts that have improved their Performance Index by three or more points from the previous year while also achieving a Value-Added rating of four or more stars.
For Glendale Elementary, this marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to foster academic growth. Principal Tim Walker expressed his pride in the achievement.
"This award is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our teachers, staff, and students," Walker said. "We are committed to ensuring that every child at Glendale Elementary has the tools and support they need to succeed. It’s an honor to see those efforts recognized at the state level."
This is not the first time the district has been recognized for outstanding progress. The district previously received the Momentum Award in 2015, back when the State Report Card was based on letter grades. Heritage Hill and Evendale Elementary Schools were also in 2016. In 2019, Springdale Elementary School was named a High Progress School of Honor by the State Board of Education and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction for its outstanding performance and student progress. More recently, in 2023, Sharonville and Stewart Elementary Schools earned the same Momentum Award accolade.
“It’s an honor for our schools to be recognized for the outstanding experience that is provided every day,” said G. Elgin Card, superintendent. “This is evidence of the hard work and dedication that our staff is doing across the district, empowering each of our students for college, career, and life success. We work hard to engage all of our staff, students, and communities to provide a quality educational experience. All the extra opportunities we offer our students make up the Princeton Advantage.”
At Lincoln Heights Elementary, the Momentum Award recognition is seen as both a celebration and a motivation for continued growth. Principal Dawn Bailey credited the school’s close-knit community for the achievement.
"Our school is more than just a place of learning—it’s a family," Bailey said. "This award belongs to our teachers, staff, students, and parents who work together every day to create an environment where academic excellence is possible. We will continue striving to push our students forward and build on this success."
The announcement came with high praise from Stephen D. Dackin, Director of ODEW, who commended the schools for their commitment to student achievement.
"The Momentum Award is a testament to your dedication to excellence for your students and the community," Dackin wrote in a letter to the principals. "This notable accomplishment celebrates those who create a supportive learning environment that fosters growth, collaboration, and success."
Heritage Hill Elementary Principal Michelle Peterson echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the teamwork behind the school’s progress.
"This recognition is not just about our academic achievements; it is a celebration of the spirit and love that defines our school family," Peterson said. "It speaks to the hard work and drive of our entire staff toward continuous improvement, as well as the support and encouragement of our parents and community. We are empowering each student for life success, and this recognition proves the schools are achieving and our students are thriving.”
As the Princeton City School District continues to focus on student success, these elementary schools are setting a high standard for what can be achieved through collaboration, commitment, and a strong belief in the potential of every child.