JGD Update Feb. 9-13

Posted on 2026-02-09 17:24:51.44 +0000 UTC

JGD Update Feb. 9-13 | Important Dates, Model UN, Speech Club Achievement, Canadian Veterans Society, Cyber Safety Presentation, Student Survey, Study Guide, Grad Photo Due Date, Yearbook, Upcoming Events, and More

Important Dates

February 12–13

Teacher Convention — No School

Model United Nations at Henry Wise Wood High School

On January 23 and 24, eleven of our John G. Diefenbaker High School Model United Nations delegates attended their first Model UN Conference at Henry Wise Wood High School.

Students collaborated with peers from other schools to address global issues such as the role of artificial intelligence in education and its impact on the future of learning.

Our Finland delegate, Teagan, argued for responsible AI education through critical thinking, AI literacy, and ethical understanding beginning at an early age.
Our Cameroon delegate, Samantha, emphasized the importance of equitable access to AI technology in developing nations to foster critical thinking and understanding.
Aydin, Hashim, and Kyumin participated in crisis committees, where dynamic scenarios unfolded, including a Brooklyn 99-themed committee and a Greek mythology crisis led by Hercules.

Students gained valuable experience learning parliamentary procedures, collaborating across committees, and building connections with peers from other schools.

jgd un conference

Speech Club Achievement

Congratulations to Simer K., who placed 6th overall in the province in Persuasive Speech at the recent Provincial Speech Tournament hosted by Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School.

The competition was highly competitive, and we are extremely proud of this outstanding achievement.

Message from Canadian Veterans Services Society

cdn veterans society letter

Cyber and Social Media Safety - Sir John A. MacDonald Hosting Paul Davis – All parents/guardians welcome to attend

Paul is a renowned cyber and social media safety expert. He does an amazing job of educating parents about how to help protect students from online bullying, sexual exploitation, radicalizations, AI traps and much more!

Paul Davis Poster

CBE Student Survey

cbe student survey

Castle Rock Study Guide Sale — Until February 11

Castle Rock Research study guide sales are open through February 11.

EducationMatters has partnered with Castle Rock Research to offer high-quality study materials at a significant discount for CBE students. These resources are designed to support learning and build confidence throughout the semester.

Orders can be placed using the school link below:
https://castlerockresearch.com/cbe-site-sale

All purchases support EducationMatters programs that help CBE students thrive.

Final Opportunity for Graduation Photos

There are still nearly 100 graduates who have not completed their graduation photos for the yearbook and composite.

Lifetouch has completed on-site sessions at John G. Diefenbaker High School. Students who missed their session may still book a studio appointment.

Studio Location:
5329 72 Ave SE #30
Calgary, AB T2C 4X6

Important Deadline:
Studio appointments must be completed by February 14, 2026 to be included in the yearbook and composite.

Book Your Appointment: Calgary Studio Booking

Graduates who attend commencement will also receive a complimentary 5×7 photo of themselves crossing the stage.

Parent Council

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, March 31 at 6:00 PM

Parents interested in joining School Council are encouraged to consider the following roles:

Chair

Leads meetings, acts as spokesperson, liaises with school administration, reviews communications and minutes, and prepares meeting presentations.

Vice-Chair

Supports the Chair and assumes responsibilities when the Chair is unavailable.

Secretary

Records and distributes meeting minutes, manages email communications, and maintains council documentation.

Key Communicator

This is not an Executive position. This person will attend the meetings put on by CBE (approx. 3-4 per year) and provide a synopsis of what was covered. This can be provided to Chair or Vice Chair to share at the next council meeting if unable to attend.

School Council Meeting at 6:30 PM on Tuesday April 14^th, Trustee Laura Hack will be attending and answering questions. Please register through link below.

Fill out form

2025–2026 School Fees

Semester 2 school fees are now available for viewing and payment through MyCBE/PowerSchool or in person at the Business Office.

Additional Items Still Available:

Calculator Rental: Calculator rental is still available. Please use this Link.
Parking Pass: Parking passes are still available. Please use this Link.

Ride of the Chiefs (ROTC)

Our Leadership students are organizing the 11th annual Ride of the Chiefs, a 12-hour bike-a-thon supporting the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Over the past decade, this event has raised more than $160,000, including $20,000 last year alone.
The 2026 event will take place on:

Friday, April 17, 2026

Volunteer Support Needed

We are seeking 12 parent volunteers from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM to help supervise the event. Without sufficient volunteers, the event may need to be shortened.

Volunteer Requirements:

Valid police clearance (ePIC)
Registered volunteer through SchoolEngage

Please email completed forms and clearance documents to:
johngdiefenbaker@cbe.ab.ca

Cell Phone Use

John G. Diefenbaker staff follow Alberta Government regulations regarding cell phone use. Phones are permitted only when required for learning.

Parents are asked not to text or call students during instructional time. If you do text or call, please do not expect an immediate response. Students are not allowed to take calls or texts during the learning and if they do, they face consequences. If there is an emergency, please call our main phone number and ask one of the Secretaries to call into the classroom. Parents contacting students during class time has become a concern in our building and we ask for your assistance.

Transition to Adulthood: Public Invitation

Transition to Adulthood Resource Fair & Information Session

Friday, February 20, 2026
2:00–4:00 PM
CBE Career & Technology Centre – Learning Commons
2336 53 Ave SW

Focus:
This afternoon event is open to families, guardians and staff supporting complex needs students to learn more about Government Supports and Services available as they transition to adulthood.

Additional Information:
Please review the attachments and complete the registration link if attending.

A presentation by Easter Seals will share about the services and application process for:

Guests will have an opportunity to explore and meet with a variety of Calgary-based organizations who provide services to Adults receiving PDD programming and support.

Athletics & Events Schedule

A detailed weekly schedule outlining meetings, in-school events, athletics, and after-school activities will be shared with students. Highlights include basketball games, wrestling tournaments, and other competitive events throughout the week.

Monday, February 9: