Jack James Registration

You do not need to live in a specific community to attend Jack James—students from anywhere in Calgary can attend Jack James.

Jack James offers both Diploma and Knowledge and Employability academic streams.

For more information or to book a school intake appointment, please email jackjames@cbe.ab.ca or call the office at 403-248-4054.  

The school will provide on-going tours and meetings with prospective students throughout the spring until the end of June and then beginning again the last week of August.

You may also contact your student’s Assistant Principal or Guidance Counsellor based on their last name:

Last Names A–K

• Mr. Howey — Assistant Principal
• Ms. Murray — Guidance Counsellor

Last Names L–Z

• Ms. Drake — Assistant Principal
• Ms. Fink — Guidance Counsellor

Frequently Asked Questions About Jack James High School

Can students earn a High School Diploma at Jack James?

Yes. Students at Jack James can work toward earning either their Alberta High School Diploma or their High School Certificate, depending on their individual goals and pathway.

A common misconception is that students cannot graduate with a diploma from Jack James—but that is not true. Many of our students successfully complete diploma requirements and graduate with the credentials needed for future education and career opportunities.

Can Jack James students go to post-secondary?

Absolutely. Jack James offers a wide range of academic and diploma-level courses that support entry into many post-secondary pathways.

While we may not offer every course available at larger community high schools, we provide strong academic programming and personalized support to help students reach their goals. In recent years, Jack James graduates have gone on to attend post-secondary institutions, apprenticeship programs, and career training programs, with some students also earning scholarships.

We work closely with students to help them plan pathways that align with their strengths, interests, and future goals.

Is Jack James a specialized setting?

Jack James is a small, supportive high school that provides a more personalized learning experience. We are considered a Unique setting and a program of choice for the CBE.

Our classes are typically smaller than those in many community high schools, averaging around 20–25 students per class. Smaller class sizes allow students to build strong relationships with their teachers and receive more individualized support.

Because we are a smaller school, students often tell us that high school feels less overwhelming and easier to navigate. Many students who transfer to Jack James share that they feel connected and supported being in a smaller setting.

What makes Jack James different from other high schools?

Jack James focuses on creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences that help students succeed in both school and life.

As a smaller school community, we get to know our students well and can provide personalized supports that meet their academic, social, emotional, and behavioural needs.

We believe that when students feel connected, supported, and understood, they are more likely to thrive.

What trades and hands-on learning opportunities are available?

Jack James offers strong Career and Technology Studies (CTS) and trades programming for students who enjoy hands-on learning.

Students begin by exploring different areas through junior shop experiences, where they can try a variety of skill areas and discover their interests.

In Grades 11 and 12, students can participate in senior shop programming, typically scheduled in the mornings, allowing for extended hands-on learning and skill development.

Our hands-on programs give students opportunities to learn by doing, build practical skills, and explore career pathways in areas such as trades, design, construction, culinary arts, and more.

For many students, this active, practical style of learning is a major reason Jack James feels like the right fit.

Can students play sports if they attend Jack James?

Yes—absolutely.

A common misconception is that students at Jack James cannot participate in school sports, but that is not true.

Jack James competes in a small schools athletic league with other schools of similar size. Students can participate in sports such as:

• Volleyball
• Basketball
• Badminton

In addition, Jack James operates as a dual campus with Forest Lawn High School, which gives students access to even more athletic and program opportunities.

Through this partnership, Jack James students can also try out for and participate in Forest Lawn sports teams, including:

• Football
• Rugby
• Basketball
• Swimming
• Wrestling

Many of our students actively participate in athletics. In fact, the football program has become a strong example of our partnership with Forest Lawn—a significant portion of the team is made up of Jack James students, and next year’s head coach is a Jack James teacher.

In addition to traditional athletics, Jack James also offers an E-Sports team, which participated in competitive tournaments last year, giving students another exciting opportunity to build teamwork, strategy, and school connection.

We believe in creating opportunities for students to get involved, build confidence, and experience being part of a team.

Who is Jack James a good fit for?

Jack James serves a wide range of students, and there is no single “type” of student who attends our school.

Our students come to us for many different reasons.

Jack James may be a great fit for students who:

• Want a smaller supportive school environment
• Benefit from smaller class sizes
• Experience anxiety or school-related stress
• Prefer hands-on or practical learning opportunities
• Are looking for a fresh start in a new school community
• Want strong connections with teachers and staff

Many students who transfer to Jack James tell us they wish they had found the school sooner. Parents often share the same sentiment.

Because of our smaller size and personalized approach, students often find Jack James easier to navigate than larger community high schools. Our staff gets to know students well and works closely with them to support both their learning and overall well-being.

At Jack James, students are seen, known, and supported—and that makes a meaningful difference.

What are the Knowledge & Employability Registration Procedures?

Some are recommended for Knowledge and Employability Courses (K&E) by their present school. School counsellors, administrators, and classroom teachers make their recommendations and submit names of possible candidates to Jack James. Parents may also initiate admission procedures as their school of choice.

Registration forms are submitted by the student’s through Jack James counselling sessions at the junior high schools. The status of each application is decided upon and communicated to the school and parents.

Registration forms may also be submitted during the school year. Parents are contacted with regard to informed consent.

Although Knowledge & Employability Courses are an excellent opportunity for learning, they may not be appropriate for all students. Information from the student’s last school is essential in determining whether K&E are in the best interest of the student. Parents should become very familiar with K&E and how they differ from the regular program before making a decision for their child.