Principals

January 2026

Dear East Belfast School Families,

 As we begin 2026, I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude for your continued partnership and support. January offers a natural pause point to reflect on the progress we’ve made together and to look ahead with renewed focus and optimism. 

Throughout the first half of the school year, our students have demonstrated tremendous growth in academics, social development, and emotional well-being. Classrooms are filled with curiosity, perseverance, and care, and it has been wonderful to see students building confidence as learners and as members of our school community. This progress would not be possible without the strong collaboration between home and school, and we are grateful for all you do to support your children. 

Our 2025–2026 school theme, ROAR: Responsible, On task, Accountable, and Respectful, continues to guide our work each day. Students are learning what it means to “ROAR” in their classrooms, on the playground, and throughout the school. As we move into the second half of the year, we will continue to reinforce these shared expectations and celebrate the many ways our students demonstrate them. 

Winter can be a busy and sometimes challenging season, but it is also a time for steady routines, reflection, and growth. We encourage families to continue supporting learning at home by reading together, engaging in conversation, and maintaining consistent routines that help children feel prepared to learn each day. 

Thank you for being an essential part of the East Belfast School community. We look forward to all that the remainder of the school year will bring and appreciate the trust you place in us each day. 

Yours in learning,
Mrs. Ridgeway
Principal