St. John Bosco was an exceptional educator. His acute intelligence, common sense, and profound spirituality led him to create a system of education that develops the whole person - body, heart, mind, and spirit. He called his own the "preventive system" to distinguish his method from the repressive system of education prevalent in 19th century Italy. It enhances growth and freedom while putting the young at the center of the whole educational enterprise.

The Preventive System of Education is an educative method based on reason, religion and loving kindness. It places the young in an environment in which they are encouraged to be the best they can be. It is a congenial, friendly, and holistic approach to education, creating a climate that 'draws forth' (educere) the best in the young, that recognizes the giftedness of the young.

The Preventive System of Education encourages the complete and fullest self expression of the young, assisting them in acquiring habits that will lead them to opt in favor of what is good, healthy, joyful, and life-enhancing. For Don Bosco "education is a matter of the heart."

Don Bosco Academy educates and forms the young alongside a set of core values. They are the values alumni and present bosconians alike have been challenged and invited to live out in life. The core values of Don Bosco Academy form the acronym SHIELD, which stands for the following:

1. Spirituality » our foundation

2. Heroism » our inspiration

3. Integrity » our disposition

4. Excellence » our execution

5. Leadership » our contribution

6. Discipline » our orientation

Incidentally, the badge of Don Bosco Academy which every alumnus and bosconian will easily relate with is a SHIELD.