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,
Welcome back to a new school year at Nelnah Bessie John School! We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable summer and are looking forward to another year of learning, growing, and spending time together.
We are excited to welcome our Learners, Families, Elders, and community members back into the school. We look forward to another year of learning both in the classroom and on the land, strengthening our connections to language, culture, and community.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of NBJS. We’re looking forward to a wonderful year together!
Tsin’įį choh, Máhsin cho
Nelnah Bessie John School Staff
Meet our outstanding staff
Leadership Team
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.