School Newsletter-February 2026

Important dates to remember in February

February is African Heritage Month
February is Registration Month
February 16: Heritage Day (no classes - all schools)
February 17: Lunar New Year

February is Registration Month

Do you have or know a child who will be starting Pre Primary or Primary this fall? It’s time to register!  

Registration for the 2026-27 school year begins on Monday, February 2. To ensure we have the right staff and supports in place for September, it’s important that we gather enrolment numbers now.  

Tip: Before you begin, make sure you have the following documents in electronic form (image, PDF or Word document):  

  • Proof of identity/age with one of the following: birth certificate, passport, immigration papers, or legal adoption papers if you are new to the HRCE
  • Proof of home address with one of the following: a recently dated official government or utility document with your current address that includes your name and date, such as water bill, power bill, internet bill, home fuel bill, a tax receipt, property assessment, a mortgage contract or a residential lease agreement

Visit the HRCE website for more information and to enrol your child today through PowerSchool Enrollment! 

Don’t have a child to register? Maybe you know someone who does! Please help us spread the word and pass this information on to friends, neighbours or relatives who will be looking to register for the fall.

February is African Heritage Month

African Heritage Month in Nova Scotia is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, vibrant culture, and lasting contributions of people of African descent in our province. This year’s theme, “Strength in Unity – Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power and Progress,” reminds us of the importance of coming together as a community, learning from one another, and moving forward with shared purpose.

In our schools, African Heritage Month provides meaningful opportunities for students to explore African Nova Scotian histories and experiences, deepen their understanding of our shared past, and reflect on the values of respect, inclusion, and belonging. Through classroom learning, discussions, and activities connected to this year’s theme, students are encouraged to appreciate diversity, build empathy, and recognize the strength that comes from unity. These experiences help foster welcoming school communities and inspire students to contribute positively to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

February 16 is Heritage Day

Nova Scotia Heritage Day is celebrated on Monday, February 16, and provides an opportunity for students and families to learn more about the people, stories, and events that have shaped our province. Each year, Heritage Day honours a notable Nova Scotian, and in 2026 we recognize Joseph William Comeau, an important Acadian poet, writer, and cultural leader.

Joseph William Comeau is remembered for his contributions to Acadian literature and for helping to preserve and promote Acadian language, identity, and culture in Nova Scotia. His work reflected the everyday lives, resilience, and traditions of Acadian communities, and his legacy continues to influence Acadian culture today.

Heritage Day provides us with an opportunity to explore Nova Scotia’s diverse history and to better understand how individuals from different backgrounds have contributed to our shared story. Learning about Joseph William Comeau helps students appreciate the richness of Acadian heritage and the importance of preserving culture, language, and community.

Thriving Offline: How Delaying Smartphones Can Help Kids Flourish

Thriving Offline: How Delaying Smartphones Can Help Kids Flourish, a free community event hosted by Unplugged Canada at St. Margaret’s Bay Elementary, is available both in person and virtually. 

Designed for caregivers and educators, this session will explore how early smartphone and social media use impacts children’s development and the latest research, practical strategies, safer alternatives, and age-appropriate boundaries to support healthy childhoods.

Join us! Thriving Offline: How Delaying Smartphones Can Help Kids Flourish

  • Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
  • St. Margaret’s Bay Elementary - 24 Ridgewood Dr, Head of St Margaret's Bay, NS
  • Please register for in-person or virtual here.