DEC Explores Scenarios Involving Morna Heights Elementary

As Morna Heights Elementary School faces potential closure, a Policy 409 process continues through the Anglophone South District Education Council.

The kindergarten to grade 5 school has 70 students with an English-only program and it also has issues with air and water quality.

Superintendent Zoe Watson says additional information was requested on enrollment projections for Grand Bay-Westfield and west Saint John schools if Morna Heights closes.

“I think council wanted some assurances that if the school does close would there be adequate space in the schools on the west side to accommodate those students,” Watson said.

Watson says they were asked to examine what a french immersion program might look like.

“Given the small, small numbers, it would be combined classes and maybe three grades in one class. It would be challenging for a small school to offer two programs because that is what you would end up with,” Watson said.

The DEC also explored the savings if Morna Heights were to close. Chair Rob Fowler says the savings would be just under $300,000, which includes operational costs.

“As well as a staffing savings that would be realized with one less principal, one less admin, one less custodian as well and potentially some teaching positions that could be moved to other areas but, would be saved at that school,” Fowler said.

Watson says air quality tests in December didn’t find any serious concerns.

Regular water testing finds traces of E. coli and chloroform and further exploration of the well would be costly. Bottled water is brought in for the students.

The next meeting in the process will be held at the Anglophone South District Education Council offices in Saint John on Feb. 12 at 7 p.m.