January 12, 2026

Dear Buccaneer Families,

I hope you and your loved ones had a healthy and restful winter break. As we welcome our students and staff back, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we begin this next chapter of the school year together.

The start of a new year is a wonderful opportunity to reset, refocus, and move forward with renewed purpose.

As we step into 2026, we do so with optimism and the same steadfast commitment to Belleville Excellence. Our work continues to center on creating safe, supportive, and engaging learning environments where every student is challenged, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Returning to our regular routines is the perfect time to reinforce how essential daily student attendance is to the success of our scholars. Being present matters. Consistent attendance is essential for academic progress, building strong relationships, and developing student confidence. Thank you for your support in ensuring students arrive on time and ready to learn each day.

I'd also like to remind families that the District's updated dress code took effect on January 6. Your partnership in reinforcing these expectations helps maintain a safe, focused and respectful learning environment for all students. Click here to reference the District's dress code.

Thank you for being such an important part of our Belleville school community. Together, we will continue building on our progress and shaping a strong, successful year ahead.

Wishing you and your family a positive and productive start to 2026.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach me at superintendent@bellevilleschools.org.

Educationally yours,

Dr. Erick Alfonso

Belleville Schools Celebrate Community and Tradition at Three Kings Day

Belleville High School was transformed into a festive wonderland as the Belleville Board of Education partnered with the Township to host the annual Three Kings Day celebration on January 6. More than 300 vehicles wound through the high school grounds, greeted by floats, costumed dancers, and three super-popular camels - Ruben, Marvin and Elliott.

This beloved tradition celebrates Dia de los Reyes, a significant holiday for the Township's vibrant Latino and Hispanic community. In a true display of community spirit, local volunteers and businesses joined together to ensure every child left with a wrapped gift. The event also highlighted the town's diverse heritage with an appearance by the Befana, an Italian holiday tradition.

Schools Superintendent Erick Alfonso joined Mayor Michael Melham, Deputy Mayor Naomy De Peña and the entire Township Council in welcoming families to the high school campus, noting the event as a premier example of the school district’s successful collaboration with the Township. The Belleville Public Schools is proud to serve as a host for such a joyful annual celebration.

Belleville Aspiring Leaders Academy Kicks Off

The Belleville Public Schools district recently celebrated the successful launch of the Belleville Aspiring Leaders Academy, welcoming a cohort of over 40 motivated staff members. This initiative serves as a strategic bridge between academic theory and the practical realities of school administration, specifically designed to cultivate a robust leadership pipeline from within the district. The debut session was characterized by high-level dialogue and a shared commitment to excellence in education.

The academy was honored to have Dr. D’Elia, Mrs. Iaccheo, and Dr. Lash in attendance, whose mentorship and support added significant depth to the experience. As these aspiring leaders begin their journey, the district looks forward to the continued growth of this talented group and the positive impact they will undoubtedly have on the future of Belleville schools.