CONWAY, MA — There were a lot of new faces this year at the Conway Grammar School during the first day of school on Wednesday, and not just among students.

Kristen Gordon took over the reigns of the school as acting principal on July 1, replacing long-time principal, Judith Siciliano, who retired June 30 after 17 years leading the school.

While the Union 38 schools prepare for opening day, Gordon told The Recorder she’s in “principal paradise” and can’t wait to kick off the new year.

“The staff is amazing. The children are amazing. The families and community are fabulous,” she said Friday, “and our administrative team is fantastic.”

On Wednesday, about 150 pupils burst through the doors of the school on Fournier Road ushering in a new school year, hailing Gordon’s inaugural year as principal.