Meet the Leader of Our New Centralized All-Day Kindergarten Program - Erin T. Jones

Experienced Educator and Early Childhood Leader to Guide the District's Newest School, Opening in 2026-2027

Pickerington Local Schools has selected Erin T. Jones as the inaugural Principal of the new All-Day Kindergarten program, beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.

“It is truly an honor and a responsibility I do not take lightly,” Jones said. “To be trusted to open a brand-new building dedicated entirely to our youngest learners is both humbling and exciting. This is an opportunity to help shape a legacy from the very beginning.”

Jones brings extensive experience in early childhood and elementary education, including her current role as assistant principal at Heritage Elementary School, where she has supported student discipline systems, led MTSS processes, conducted teacher observations, and partnered with families to strengthen school culture. She also served as Early Childhood Education Coordinator for Columbus City Schools and has held classroom and leadership roles spanning pre-K through second grade.

Reflecting on her approach, Jones said,

“Leadership is about people first — listening, supporting, and holding high expectations with care. I want families to feel warmth, joy, and a deep sense of belonging the moment they walk into our Kindergarten Village.”

As part of the District’s long-term facilities planning, the all-day program will be housed in the current Diley Middle School building. Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Diley Middle School will relocate to the recently vacated Ridgeview Junior High School building. The District will also invite community input on the new name of the building, with the Board of Education making the final decision.

Jones sees universal all-day kindergarten as a critical milestone for the District.

“It ensures every child, regardless of background, has access to a full day of learning, exploration, and support. We’re investing in equity, opportunity, and strong academic and social foundations that will last a lifetime,” she said.

Building on the lessons from Pickerington’s successful two-year all-day kindergarten pilot, Jones plans to balance rigorous instruction with play, movement, and social-emotional development. Her first-year priorities will include building strong relationships, establishing clear expectations, supporting high-quality instruction, and creating a positive, joyful school culture from day one. She also emphasized the importance of creating a strong school culture for students, staff, and families.

“Culture starts with connection. We will establish shared values, celebrate successes often, and communicate clearly with families. When staff feel supported and valued, and families feel like partners, students thrive,” she said.

She hopes the final name reflects growth, belonging, joy, and new beginnings — the heart of what the all-day kindergarten program will represent.

Jones holds a Master’s in Educational Studies and Educational Administration from Ohio State University, a Master’s in Family Studies from Spring Arbor University, and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from Xavier University. She holds Ohio principal and early childhood professional licenses with a reading endorsement.