“Things do not happen; things are made to happen.” John F. Kennedy
John F. Kennedy High School is a comprehensive high school located in the Bear Valley neighborhood, serving students in grades 9-12. With a highly-qualified staff, engaging and diverse course options, a plethora of clubs and athletic opportunities, and a stellar counseling department, JFK is a top choice for students across the district.
JFK provides a variety of options for our students, as high school is all about learning and exploring who we are and who we want to be as we grow. Academic options, including International Baccalaureate and Career Connect pathways are at the heart of our program, but students can also choose to pursue a combination of coursework with a focus on future careers or fields of study.
We also recognize the need for a well-rounded education, which is why a broad range of electives and extracurricular activities are offered. Film, graphic design, drama, choir, engineering, art, business, photography, and instrumental music are just some of the many fun and interesting course options we offer.
John F. Kennedy High School first opened its doors for the 1965-1966 school year, and it has been proudly serving students and families in the Southwest Denver community and beyond for over 50 years.
John F. Kennedy High School was named in honor of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963, only two years prior to the school’s opening.
Our mascot is the Commanders, which represents President Kennedy’s service as a Naval Commander in the South Pacific on the PT 109, a Patrol Torpedo boat, during WWII. He was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for demonstrating leadership and courage while saving numerous shipmates, as well as a Purple Heart for injuries sustained as a result..
JFK’s school colors, Navy Blue and Kelly Green, also represent President Kennedy. The Navy Blue represents his naval career, and the Kelly Green represents his Irish Catholic faith, as he was the first Catholic to ever be elected President of the United States.
