Everyone welcome, everyone a priority

How We Learn

Our mission is to ensure that JMJS students receive culturally relevant education with a commitment to academic excellence.

We foster a strong sense of student identity and pride, promoting community involvement and holistic well-being, on their path to graduation with a full Dogwood Diploma in pursuit of their future education and careers.

How We Learn

Our mission is to ensure that JMJS students receive culturally relevant education with a commitment to academic excellence.

We foster a strong sense of student identity and pride, promoting community involvement and holistic well-being, on their path to graduation with a full Dogwood Diploma in pursuit of their future education and careers.

How We Learn

Our mission is to ensure that JMJS students receive culturally relevant education with a commitment to academic excellence.

We foster a strong sense of student identity and pride, promoting community involvement and holistic well-being, on their path to graduation with a full Dogwood Diploma in pursuit of their future education and careers.

JEAN MARIE JOSEPH SCHOOL

Operated by the Band, our school is also supported by both the First Nations Education Steering Committee and the First Nations Schools Association. We have proudly recertified our FNSA accreditation through 2029 which provides full educational funding and services. We also host workshops, meetings, training seminars and community events.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAM

Our daily school breakfast and lunch program promotes healthy living and culturally relevant nutrition for all students to support a positive educational experience. The meal program is a team effort by our School and Health Centre staff; it also benefits those in the adult education Learning Centre and college courses as they share the facility.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (3-6 years)

The Head Start Program acts as a preschool that can serve up to eight children per registered BC Early Childhood Educator in accordance with licensing. We create a developmentally appropriate curriculum for the children and introduce new learning strategies such as self-regulation techniques, gaining independence, and basic life skills on healthy living.

Making cultural connections with the community and families of our Head Start children is a key component to set a strong foundation for our early learners. We promote healthy living and culturally relevant nutrition through breakfast, lunch, and snacks everyday. Regular outdoor play and parent/child involvement is highly encouraged to enhance a love of learning in the early years.

Young Girl displaying toy

PRIMARY &
INTERMEDIATE Gr K-7

Two full time certified teachers cover homeroom classrooms and all regular stream academics from Kindergarten to Grade 7. Our students are divided into primary (K-4) and intermediate (5-7) classes for individualized instruction in the regular BC curriculum and our Carrier language and culture. The school also features a library, gym, computers, and a workout room with weight training equipment.

Teachers drumming

Mamta Sharma: Grade K-4
Nisha Sharma: Grade 5-7

Our teachers Mamta and Nisha have made Canada home for two and six years respectively, first in Victoria, BC, and now in Yekooche Nation. Both teachers have achieved university degrees in Bachelor of Arts (English), Bachelor of Education (Elementary), and Masters of English in India.  As well, Mamta holds a Masters of History from India and they both have accomplished Masters of Education degrees in Canada.

“Sports and physical activity are integral components of a well-rounded education. As a foundation for life-long physical fitness, they also provide numerous benefits that enhance academic success, personal development, and overall well-being.” 

– Yekooche Education Director

YOUTH EDUCATION (GR 8-12)

Our High School students are supported individually to plan and meet their goals for graduation and career development.

While the Yekooche village is isolated, we regularly engage students with field trips and hosting guest speakers in the Village to promote community engagement and personal growth.

FIELD TRIPS & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Our school trip to Edmonton blended educational experiences with cultural immersion and outdoor adventures, ensuring a memorable and impactful journey for our students to learn, explore, and create lasting memories together. Students had the opportunity to visit the West Edmonton Mall, Marine Center, Galaxy Land, Edmonton Zoo, Telus Science Center and more!

SPECIAL EVENT DAYS

Mother’s Day Event 2024 was held at JMJ School to celebrate and honour all Mothers. Each mother in attendance received a customized hoodie, door prizes, and a handmade card from the children. They also got to enjoy a BBQ, refreshments and dessert.

The Yekooche Nation teaches their children to always honour, respect and fully love the mother. The mother has sacrificed so much to bring you into this world. She gave you life and will love you forever. You must always remember to give unconditional love back and support and respect the mother at all times.

ADULT EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT TRAINING

Students recently participated in a Drone training session with Revered Cinema that generated a series of aerial photos of the Yekooche school, including the image displayed in the page footer below.

Our Yekooche Nation and its Education Department strives to empower adults through quality education and specialized training, equipping them with knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce.

Our goal is to provide accessible and innovative learning opportunities that support personal growth, professional development, and sustainable employment, fostering a community of lifelong learners who strive in a rapidly evolving economy.

Empowering Minds ~ Inspiring Futures