A Full House at John F. Kennedy High School: Families Discover "A Small School with a Big Heart"

By Emanie Arslan

On September 24, John F. Kennedy High School  in St. Michel opened its doors to the community, and the turnout was outstanding. Dozens of parents and their children filled our hallways, gym and classrooms to see firsthand what makes JFK such a special place to learn, grow and belong.

From the moment visitors walked through the front doors on Villeray Street, the energy was unmistakable. Students welcomed guests with pride, teachers shared their passion for their programs, and families saw for themselves why our motto, Scire, Amare, Servire (To Know, To Love, To Serve), is more than just words on a crest.

Programs That Help Every Student Shine

At JFK, they believe every student has strengths waiting to be discovered. Visitors explored a wide range of programs designed to challenge, support and inspire:

• Enriched Mathematics and Science:  for students who are looking ahead to related fields of study in university programs.

• Advanced French: building strong bilingual skills for success in Quebec and beyond.

• Multimedia Program: with fully equipped Mac labs, students progress from logo and comic design in Secondary 1, to animation and claymation in Secondary II photography in Secondary III, and media creation and film studies using iMovie, GarageBand and Final Cut in Secondary IV and V.

• Athletics: a program built on discipline, respect, teamwork and a commitment to excellence.  Last year they won three GMAA championships in outdoor and indoor soccer! They also have other teams such as volleyball and basketball who have also had success in the playoffs.

•     WOTP (Work-Oriented Training Pathways): specialized programs that give every learner a clear and meaningful path to success after high school.

• Career Exploration: helping students connect their talents to their future, including the HOPS program: The Hospital Opportunity Program for Students, which provides an opportunity for EMSB Secondary V students to observe and assist medical personnel in a large hospital setting in order to explore a career in medicine.

Aim High: Where Every Student Gets the Attention They Deserve. Aim High is designed for a small group of students aged 12 to 15 who are taught a modified curriculum at each student's current level of achievement and understanding. They will spend 1 to 3 years building their confidence academically before deciding if the regular high school curriculum is right for them. Students are referred to our program by their elementary schools in conjunction with parents and the special education consultant, based on their level of understanding in Grade 6

What makes it special:

• Extra care and attention: students stay with their dedicated Aim High teachers for their academic subjects, so teachers get to know each student both as a learner and as a person.

• A close-knit cohort: students take all of their subjects together, building friendships, confidence and a strong sense of unity as a class.

• Learning that's engaging: the program is full of hands-on projects, field trips and fun. Want to learn more about this school? Please visit  jfk.emsb.qc.ca, or contact us at JFK@emsb.qc.ca for a tour.