Hants West Middle School Students Benefit From Changes

Hants West County students in grades 7 to 9 are getting an improved school. Deputy Premier Ron Russell made the announcement today, June 7, on behalf of Education Minister Angus MacIsaac in Brooklyn at a ceremony marking the conversion of Hants West Rural High School to a middle school in September 2003.

"While it's a time for looking back as Hants West Rural High School closes, it's also a time to look to a new and brighter future for middle school students in this area," said Mr. Russell. "The conversion of the high school into West Hants Middle School will mean a better gym and sports field, as well as improved computer and technology education classrooms."

The renovations and improvements to the school will begin in September 2003 and should be completed in the 2008-09 school year.

The project will cost $5.5 million and will see the construction of a new gymnasium and the conversion of the old gym into a cafeteria. Enhancements will also be made to school grounds and the sports field.

"The board is extremely pleased to have the announcement of the renovation to West Hants Middle School," said Shirley Jackson, chair of the Annapolis Valley Regional School Board. "There has been a steering committee working on the ideas from the public and to hear that we are actually going to get started on the renovations is extremely good news."

The work will not interfere with the education of students who will be attending the school.

High school students will attend the newly constructed Avon View High School in Windsor.

This is one of several new school or major renovation projects being announced by the province over the next few days.