School Philosophy
We are committed to making a measurable difference at John D. Bracco by focusing on student academic achievement while building positive relationships with every student.
As a school community, our staff and students have identified with the 6 Pillars of John D Bracco that support lasting relationships:
- CITIZENSHIP
- COURAGE
- DIGNITY
- INTEGRITY
- RESPECT
- RESPONSIBILITY
We believe in providing a wide range of learning experiences for students to develop 21st century competencies in academics, arts, athletics, and attitudes. We value our diversity in world views, cultures, languages, and student leadership programs. Also by way of extra curricular activities nurture leadership skills and community service. We strive to engage all students in performance base learning through various venues:
- Scientific Experiments - Spagetti Bridge Building, Diarama's, Waste Management, Telus World of Science
- Annual 5 km "Adam's" run (Terry Fox)
- Career Fair Day
- Clareview Library & Recreation Centre
- Grade 9 "Party Program" (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) is a clinical reality awareness
- National Indigenous Awareness Week (Wear an Orange Shirt Day)
- Mental Health Month
- Rememberance Day
- Fine Arts Night
- Taste of John D Bracco (tasting of different cultural foods)
Student Testimonials
"On my first day of Junior High, just like everyone else, I was scared but excited. I quickly found out just how caring and helpful everybody was. By the end of the day, I knew more than half the people in the class! Even though I only went to elementary with a few of my classmates, the rest of them were very friendly and easy to talk to."
Zachary, Grade 8 Belmont Elementary Alumni
"At John D. Bracco School the teachers are really nice and helpful. Whenever we do projects they give you options instead of just making you do a poster or a PowerPoint. They also take time out of their lives so they can help you with things and you knowledge can expand. There is usually never a dull moment!"
Anisa, Grade 8 Belmont Elementary Alumni
"The teachers here are seriously awesome. I can't get over how nice they are too. Learning is made fun, with hands on activities and LOTS of fieldtrips. Also they don't just give you a book and tell you do page 33, they make sure you understand everything.
"Morgan, Grade 8 Fraser Elementary Alumni
"When I came to the Open House at John D. Bracco, everyone was welcoming. They showed the way around and gave me information about the school., On my first day , I was not nervous at all, I was excited to be here. Teachers said hello and I like how they gave us sheets like "Name Bingo" to get to know the kids in my class! It was an extraordinary day!"
Braydon, Grade 8 Fraser Elementary Alumni
"At John D. Bracco there are so many activities, and you can try for any team or club. The teams here are the best and coaches are even more amazing because they help you and motivate you to do your best. The Drama club performs two plays a year and they work hard to make it amazing. At John D. Bracco you get awards for your achievements like for the sports teams there's sports night where members of that team get an award. John D. Bracco is amazing and I would not want to go to any other school.
"Parvinder, Grade 8 Kirkness Elementary Alumni
"At JDB we have lots of extra stuff to do. At lunch we have a school store, with great things for a good price. Also the announcements are on a TV screen. Also we have lots of fieldtrips, to Drumheller, a Ski Trip to Jasper and Snow Valley. Also we have gym everyday all year and have many great options like Foods, and Outdoor Ed."
Ethan, Grade 8 Bannerman Elementary Alumni
"On my first day I was so welcomed all the big Grade 9s were nice, and same with the Grade 8s. I went to Bannerman Elementary and now I almost know everyone in the school, I would never change schools in a million years. It is safe and extremely welcoming here.
"Tyson Grade 8 Bannerman Elementary Alumni
"Here in JDB, academic classes are amazing. The teachers crack a couple jokes while staying on topic and teaching us. I will always remember something better if it is fun rather than boring. I'm in Advanced Placement classes, and while I learn I even crack a couple jokes and the teachers don't get mad. I love the teachers here.
"Sarah, Grade 7, Fraser Elementary Alumni
"When you are learning at JDB the teachers are able to help you whenever you need them. If you are struggling don't be shy to go to Academic Coaching after school. This is where the teachers can help you one on one."
