Province Invests in Annapolis Royal Area Students

Students and families from Annapolis Royal and surrounding communities will have more learning opportunities, thanks to a $6.9 million investment from the province.

The province will work with the Annapolis Valley Regional School Board to upgrade and renovate Annapolis West Education Centre to become a Grade 6 to Grade 12 school.

"Putting kids and learning first means providing the best learning environment for students to be successful," said Education Minister Ramona Jennex. "By working with our partners, we will ensure Annapolis West Education Centre meets the needs of students for many years to come."

"The province is investing in this school now so the work can begin immediately and benefit students sooner."

Once the renovations and upgrades are completed, the school will be home to all Grade 6 to Grade 12 students from the area. The renovations include improvements to instructional spaces and the expansion of the Skilled Trades program.

"I am pleased that this funding is coming to our area," said Sandi Millett-Campbell, member of the School Advisory Council. "The renovations to Annapolis West Education Centre will definitely be an asset to our community, and it will bring benefits for all of the students from the town and the surrounding area."

The province will allocate $1 million to the project for the 2012-13 fiscal year. The school board will manage the project in collaboration with the Department of Education.

About 440 students will attend the renovated school. The project is expected to be completed in the 2014-15 school year.