News release

Premier Announces New School for Amherst

Premier's Office

Students and families in Amherst and surrounding communities will have better educational opportunities when the province builds a new school to replace West Highlands Elementary School.

Premier Darrell Dexter made the announcement today, Nov. 30, with MLA Brian Skabar, on behalf of Education Minister Marilyn More, and Trudy Thompson, Chignecto-Central Regional School Board Chair.

"Investing in a new school is the right decision for families in the Amherst area because it will provide students with a modern learning centre that they can be proud of," said Premier Dexter. "A new school is also the best value for taxpayers and will serve the community for generations to come."

The current West Highlands Elementary School in Amherst was built in 1912, and is not appropriate for long-term use.

Funding for the construction of the new school was announced in the provincial budget this past spring.

"Our board is delighted that a new school will be built to replace the aging facilities here at West Highlands," said Ms. Thompson. "The students and staff of West Highlands are beginning a journey toward a new facility that will provide for increased learning opportunities and greater teaching collaboration in a modern learning environment that reflects the education system of today and tomorrow."

West Highlands Elementary School now has about 200 students in grades Primary to 6. The new school could handle more students depending on a boundary review to be conducted by the school board.

"The new school will be a wonderful addition to the already vibrant community of Amherst, and will benefit students and families for years to come," said Mr. Skabar. "I want to thank the school board, the town, the municipality and everyone who worked hard to make this project a reality."

Planning for the project will begin immediately. The completion date, as well as the cost of the project, will be determined during the early phases of planning. Construction could begin as early as the spring of 2012.

"West Highlands Elementary has always had a strong tradition of academic excellence," said Gary Clarke, superintendent of Chignecto-Central Regional School Board. "School leadership and staff have provided students with programs and services that are second to none in this province. A new, state-of-the-art educational facility will only enhance the ability of the principal, staff and community to meet the needs of all West Highlands Elementary students."