News release

Charles P. Allen Celebrates First School Year

Education and Early Childhood Development

Students, staff and community members from Bedford and surrounding areas celebrated the first year in their innovative new high school, today, June 11.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Karen Casey was joined by representatives from the Halifax Regional School Board, the Halifax Regional Municipality and departments of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal and Education and Early Childhood Development for the official opening of Charles P. Allen High School in Bedford.

"Through partnerships with the community and HRM, we were able to provide a multi-use facility that incorporates cutting-edge environmental design to provide a dynamic learning environment for students," said Ms. Casey. "This state-of-the-art facility will serve students and the community very well for years to come."

Charles P. Allen High School was designed to encourage collaboration among students and features a variety of spaces for group work. The school has natural light to improve the atmosphere and energy efficiency of the facility, and a computer-controlled ventilation system to monitor indoor air quality.

"We've had a tremendous first year in our new school," said Stephanie Bird, school principal. "The students and staff are benefiting from the new facilities, including enhanced technology, unique lab spaces, inviting learning studios, and access to additional recreational facilities. We are proud to call Innovation Drive the home of the Cheetahs!"

Through partnership with Halifax Regional Municipality, an additional gymnasium and a large artificial turf field are also part of the facility's shared-use design.

"The opening of this school is exciting," said Steve Warburton, District 7 member for Halifax Regional School Board. "CPA students benefit from the leading-edge use of technology and learning in the 21st century. Collaborating to learn is essential in 2014."

Charles P. Allen High School is targeting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold designation.