Avon View High School Officially Opened Today

One year to the day after students and teachers from two separate high schools were united at Avon View High School in Windsor, community members gathered today, Sept. 29, to celebrate the new building's official opening.

Education Minister Jamie Muir acknowledged how well the students, staff, and others worked together to ensure the move to the new school was a success.

"Strong communities work together to build a future for their students, and this is especially true in this part of Hants West," said Education Minister Jamie Muir. "In one year, students and staff have created new traditions and established their own identity, combining the best of the two schools, into Avon View."

Avon View High School is a grade 10 to 12 school with an enrolment of almost 900 students. It was constructed to accommodate high school students from the old Windsor Regional High School and the former Hants West Rural High School.

Students at the new Avon View High School have access to 20 new courses that were not previously available to students. Staff have also increased the number of students participating in the Career Access program, which supports students in grades 10 to 12 to enter the workforce upon graduation.

"The joining of the two student bodies, staff and community of West Hants and Windsor was an exciting, positive challenge," said Avon View High School principal Phil Van Zoost. "Through outstanding support and willingness of all parties involved, the amalgamation was a tremendous success. The combined student bodies and communities now have an outstanding facility and safe environment to learn in and to use."

The $14.3-million school has 29 classrooms, including a double gymnasium and fitness room. Community partnerships provide student access to teen health care and sports and recreation options.

Avon View High School is part of an eight-year school construction program funded by the Department of Education worth more than $400 million.