At Nelnah Bessie John School
We value family,
community and
cultural ties.
We acknowledge that we live and learn on the unceded traditional territory of the White River First Nation. The school was named after the late Nelnah Bessie John, a respected White River Elder and language teacher.
School Growth Plan
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Literacy
Improvement in standardized literacy assessments. Growth in individual reading and writing levels based on formative assessments (e.g., UFLI, Heggerty, and writing samples). Incorporate outdoor education that connects students to the land, seasons, and local ecosystems, guided by First Nation knowledge keepers. Use traditional stories to teach values, history, and lessons. Invite Elders to share stories that align with curriculum themes.
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Numeracy
Begin numeracy instruction with hands-on activities and real-world applications, gradually progressing to abstract mathematical concepts.
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Whole Child
Introduce regular activities around Social Emotional Learning (SEL), such as emotional regulation, growth mindset, empathy-building, and teamwork. Begin each day with a short session focused on building community and addressing students’ emotional needs.
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Land & Language
Create classroom spaces that reflect Indigenous art, symbols, and teachings. Ensure the learning environment is culturally rich and respectful. Invite Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members to share stories, teachings, and traditions. Organize a community language fair with storytelling, songs, and games in the Upper Tanana language.
A word from our Principal
Together, we can all
grow and come together as a family and community.
Dziin sùu’, Dzenu sóóthän NBJS community,
As another school year comes to a close at Nelnah Bessie John School, I would like to express my gratitude for the wonderful year we have shared together.
Our Learners have brought so much to our school community through their curiosity, kindness, resilience, and willingness to learn. Whether in the classroom, on the land, or out in the community, they have embraced new experiences and challenges with enthusiasm and respect. We are proud of all they have accomplished this year.
Thank you to our Community Committee for their ongoing support and dedication to our school. Your efforts help create meaningful opportunities for our Learners and strengthen the connection between the school and community.
I would also like to recognize and thank our Land and Language Connector, Ruth Johnny, and our Language Teacher, Jolenda Benjamin, for the important work they do in supporting language learning and land-based education. Their knowledge, guidance, and commitment enrich the learning experiences of our Learners and help strengthen connections to culture, language, and place.
Thank you to our families, Educators, Elders, and community members for your continued support throughout the year. Together, we make Nelnah Bessie John School a special place to learn and grow.
Wishing everyone a safe, restorative, and enjoyable summer.
Tsin’įį choh, Máhsin cho
Ms. Paula Chisholm
Principal, Nelnah Bessie John School
Meet our outstanding staff
Leadership Team
Paula Chisholm
Principal
Jolenda Benjamin
Language Teacher
Nathan Hussey
Educational Assistant
Danielle Fraser
Teacher
Ruth Johnny
Land & Language Connector
Roberta Sembsmoen
White River First Nation Education Director
School Team
Hilary Messer-Barrow
Educational Assistant and Admin Assistant
School Calendar
NBJS Calendar
Our calendar is structured to reflect cultural ways of knowing and doing.
The school year starts in early August and we have multiple extended breaks throughout the year to to spend time with their families while engaged in cultural activities.