Minister Congratulates Two Elementary Schools

Dwight Ross Elementary School in Greenwood and Tatamagouche Elementary have been recognized by Today's Parent magazine as two of the Top 40 great schools in Canada.

Tatamagouche Elementary was nominated by a child psychiatrist who recognized the school's success with children with special needs. The school is committed to serving students with special needs and has a learning centre staffed by a special education expert and a reading specialist.

Dwight Ross was recognized for its community commitment. One parent referred to the school as "the best kept secret in Canada," because of the contributions made by students and staff to the local food bank, community clean-up projects and the money the school raised for a freshwater well in India.

"Working with the students, teachers and staff of schools across the province, I see the good they are doing every day," said Education Minister Jamie Muir. "We are all proud that these schools have been recognized nationally for their exemplary work. On behalf of the government and the people of Nova Scotia, I congratulate the students and staff of these two fine schools."

The Canadian magazine wanted to celebrate what is working in public education. It received 300 nominations from more than 150 schools across the country. In addition to creating specific characteristics the schools should possess, the magazine polled researchers across the country to determine the criteria needed to be considered for the Top 40.