Dear Ethel M. Johnson Families,

Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you refreshed, energized, and ready to embark on an exciting new chapter as we return to school after the winter break. Classes officially resume on January 6 at 8:00 a.m. (warning bell for school entry is at 7:55 a.m.)

I hope the holiday season offered you time to relax, connect with loved ones, and reflect on the successes of the past year. This fall, our school community came together for several memorable events hosted by the School Council, including the Welcome Back Pancake Breakfast, the Halloween Dance, and the Winter Gingerbread House Night. In December, Ms. Laney and our talented teachers also organized the annual Winter Concert, which was a wonderful way to celebrate the season. A final thank you to Ms. Peterson and Ms. Ally, whose class organized and led the annual fundraiser, The Winter Market, which students and staff enjoyed visiting in the days leading up to the winter break.

In addition, School Council continues to support our Truth and Reconciliation Journey. This past fall, both students and staff had the privilege of working with Hal Eagletail, a Knowledge Keeper from the Tsuut’ina Nation. This important journey will continue in the spring as we deepen our learning about land-based education through key events tied to the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice.

We were delighted to host local elected officials for a school tour including MLA Diana Batten and CBE Schoolboard Trustee Nancy Close. In late November, Ms. Elies-Guss and I, along with our Education Director, Michelle Howell, showcased learning through documentation panels (bulletin boards) and visited several classrooms to engage with students and teachers. A heartfelt thank you to our outstanding student tour guides, Nora J., Salah'deen Y., and Edgely R., who did an exceptional job leading our guests and highlighting the vibrant learning happening in our school.

As we step into 2025, I am filled with optimism for all we will accomplish together as a school community. Kindgergarten registration begins on January 13 and we welcome the designation of the community of Belmont to our learning community!

As we settle back into our routines, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. To see a sample of some of the school’s events last fall, please find our account on Instagram @emj310cbe.

Warm regards,
Marina Clark
Principal
Ethel M. Johnson School