Bass River Elementary - Chignecto-Central Regional School Board

Bass River Elementary
Chignecto-Central Regional School Board
Impact Assessment Report
September 2012

INDEX
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1
School Information
Enrolment History and Projections ............................................................................................ 2
Population Patterns ................................................................................................................... 2
Capital Construction Planning .................................................................................................... 3
Physical Condition of Building .................................................................................................... 3
Floor Plan ................................................................................................................................... 4
Completed Major Maintenance Projects ................................................................................... 4
Operational & Capital Requirements ......................................................................................... 4
School Configuration .................................................................................................................. 4
Building Use ............................................................................................................................... 4
Determining Factors .................................................................................................................. 5
Impact Analysis
Capability to Deliver Public School Program
Facility ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Public School Programming ....................................................................................................... 6
Educational Benefits .................................................................................................................. 7
Transportation ........................................................................................................................... 7
Extra-curricular Activities ........................................................................................................... 7
Operational and Capital Requirements ..................................................................................... 7
Catchment Area ......................................................................................................................... 7
Operating Costs
Operating Cost per Square Foot ................................................................................................ 7
Operating Cost per Student ....................................................................................................... 8
Staffing Costs ............................................................................................................................. 8
Provincial Funding ...................................................................................................................... 8
Operational Services Efficiencies ............................................................................................... 9
Major Maintenance Identified ................................................................................................... 9
Operational Efficiencies – Education ....................................................................................... 10
Total Projected Operational Efficiencies.................................................................................. 10
Impact on the Community....................................................................................................... 10
Educational Services ................................................................................................................ 10
Community Use of School ........................................................................................................ 11
Infrastructure Development in the Community Area .............................................................. 11
Small Rural Schools .................................................................................................................. 12
Proposed Receiving School Information .............................................................................................. 13

Closing ................................................................................................................................................. 17
Appendices............................................................................................................................................ 18
Appendix 1 – School Identification Reports
Appendix 2 – Evaluation Process for Condition of Schools
Appendix 3 – Educational Spaces Ranking
Appendix 4 – Determining Factors
Appendix 5 – Data Sources

Chignecto-Central Regional School Board
School Review Impact Assessment Report
Bass River Elementary
A joint committee of Educational and Operational Services presented in March 2012 an Identification
Report to the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board. This report was the first phase of a School
Review Process through the Nova Scotia Education Act as indicated by Sections 13-23 of the Ministerial
Education Act Regulations.
The Identification Report was the initial phase of the review process. This report utilized a number of
factors in determining which CCRSB schools may be considered for further review. One of these schools
was Bass River Elementary in Bass River, Nova Scotia. An Impact Assessment Report would be
developed for this school and presented to the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board no later than
September 30, 2012.
There are two options being considered for Bass River Elementary with this review. The first is status
quo and current operations continue. The second is moving students to West Colchester Consolidated
School, also located in the community of Bass River.
Part 1 of this report includes school information from the Bass River Elementary Identification Report
used as a basis for determining the further review. Part 2 is an Impact Analysis. Part 3 provides
information on West Colchester Consolidated School, the proposed receiving school under Option 2.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 1
September 26, 2012

Part 1: School Information
The information in Part 1 is provided as part of the Identification Report within the first phase of the
School Review Process. Sections of the report, with additional descriptions where applicable, have been
provided in this section. The complete Identification Reports are attached with this Impact Assessment
in the appendices for Bass River Elementary and West Colchester Consolidated Schools.
School:
Bass River Elementary
School Configuration: P-4
Address:
139 Maple Avenue, Bass River, N.S. B0M 1B0
Principal:
Kevin Harnish
Enrolment History and Projections 1
Enrolments
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
# 33 32 26 23 22 20 18 19 21 21
Yr to Yr %
Change 0% -3.0% -18.8% -11.5% -4.3% -9.1% -10.0% 5.6% 10.5% 0%
For the Identification Report the enrolments for Bass River Elementary were based on a Primary to Grade 3
Configuration. The 2011-2012 school years was changed to a Primary to Grade 4 configuration, with an
associated adjustment at West Colchester Consolidated School.
Population Patterns 2
Population
Colchester County
Age 2001 2006
0-19 12,735 11,775
20-44 16,650 15,435
45-64 12,635 14,670
65-74 3,835 4,250
75 & over 3,460 3,895
School Review Impact Assessment Page 2
September 26, 2012

The census data above indicates that the population has decreased from 2001 to 2006 up to the age of
44. The population of persons 45 years of age and above has increased.
Capital Construction Planning 3
The Province of Nova Scotia has begun a new Capital Construction Submission. The CCRSB submission
did not include any requirements for Bass River Elementary.
Physical Condition of Building 4
Accessibility 2/6
Cladding 1/8
Doors & Windows 0/6
Grounds 2/6
Electrical 6/12
Fire Alarm & P/A 1/4
Heating 4/8
Interior 8/24
Plumbing 4/6
Roofing 7/14
Ventilation 3.5/6
Total 38.5/100
Bass River Elementary is the eighth lowest ranked school within the CCRSB for building condition. The
higher the cumulative points the better indicator of school condition. A more detailed description can
be found in the appendices under “Evaluation Process for Condition of Schools”.
Bass River Elementary is located in Bass River, Nova Scotia within the Cobequid Family of Schools. The
facility was constructed in 1912 and is currently 99 years old. It is a two story building with a total size
of 5,953 square feet.
The wood shingle cladding is original to the building and requires painting and/or replacement.
Windows appear original (with the addition of aluminum storms) and, along with the wooden exterior
doors, will require replacement. The asphalt shingle roof has reached 50% of its normal useful life.
The electrical system is representative of a facility of this age and is at or near capacity. The heating fuel
tank was replaced while the oil furnace has reached half its expected life. The interior floors, walls, and
ceilings would benefit from a complete refurbishment. The plumbing and ventilation systems are
representative of a building of this age. Ventilation is minimal with washroom exhaust only. There is no
fire alarm or PA system installed in the facility.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 3
September 26, 2012

Walkways and pavement are in need of upgrades. The playground equipment consists of two sets of
swings and one wooden playground structure and some climbing bars/slides.
There is no wheelchair accessibility to the second floor and only one ramped entry to the main level.
Floor Plan 5
Figure 1 is a floor plan for the school, which may not include all revisions or changes presently at the
school.
Completed Major Maintenance Projects within the previous five years 6
There were none planned.
Operational and Capital Requirements 15
There is one project on the 2011/2012 Major Maintenance Repair Projects List:
Exterior Painting and Cladding $35,000
School Configuration 7
Regular Classrooms 6
Library 1
Building Use 8
a. Age 99 (1912)
b. Square Footage 5,953
c. Additions n/a
d. Percentage of Bussed Students 86% (19)
e. Original Number of Classrooms 6
f. Estimated Classroom Capacity 22
g. Original Capacity (e x f) 132
h. Current Enrolment 22
i. Projected Enrolment (5 Years) 23
j. Current Capacity Utilization (h / g x 100%) 17%
k. Projected Capacity Utilization (i / g x 100%) 17%
School Review Impact Assessment Page 4
September 26, 2012

Determining Factors 9
As required by the Education Act and as part of the Capital Construction process Bass River Elementary
must undergo a review based on the following criteria:
• Schools with a past-enrolment decline exceeding the CCRSB average enrolment decline over the
past 5-year fiscal period.
• The physical facilities are unable to support the complete 2003/2004 Public School Program.
• Capacity utilization currently is 50% or less of original school capacity.
• Projected capacity utilization at the end of the next 5 year fiscal period will be 50% or less of
original school capacity.
• Schools rated within the lowest 15% of the building condition index.
• From the wages expenditures assigned to a school, schools within the highest 15% of the wage
costs per student within the CCRSB.
• (No) alternative educational facility within 30 minutes of travel time between elementary and
junior high schools, and 45 minutes travel time for a high school commonly known as an isolated
school.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 5
September 26, 2012

Part 2: Impact Analysis
Capability to Deliver a Public School Program
Facility 10
Bass River Elementary has Primary to Grade Four configuration. The school received a rating of 2 out of
5 within the Identification Report regarding the capability to deliver the Public School Program. This
indicated that some of the education spaces meet the program requirements with approximately 40-
50% of the program spaces being adequate.
The inadequate program spaces included those with the physical education and the music programs.
For both of these programs, students are transported to West Colchester Consolidated School. A bus
driver, with additional cleaning duties, is based at West Colchester Consolidated for transporting
students during the school day, twice a week for music and similarly for physical education.
A former classroom is utilized for the library program component. This room also has computers
available for technology participation for students. Another classroom is used by the C@P program for
community internet access.
Public School Programming 11
The Public School Program is not currently being met at Bass River Elementary.
• No music room; students travel by bus to West Colchester Consolidated for music classes twice a
week.
• No gymnasium; students travel by bus to West Colchester Consolidated for gym class twice a week.
• No cafeteria service; a hot lunch is available to the students once a week when they travel to West
Colchester Consolidated for music/gym.
The following are the class configurations at Bass River Elementary as of September 30, 2011.
Class Configuration Enrolment
Primary/1/2 (3/5/8) 16
Grades 3/4 (6/7) 13
The data for the identification report indicated Bass River Elementary as Primary to Grade 3 which
included combined Primary/Grade 1 and Grades 2/3. For the 2011/2012 school year the school became
a Primary to Grade 4 location during the class configuration process due to the small number of
students in each grade. This required an associated adjustment with Grade 4 students attending West
Colchester Consolidated.
The pupil to teacher ratio (PTR) is 14.5.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 6
September 26, 2012

Educational Benefits 12
There are no educational programming advantages to Bass River Elementary remaining operational at
its current location. Programming would have the benefit of eliminating transportation issues and
travelling between the two schools for music and physical education.
Transportation 13
Bass River Elementary and West Colchester Consolidated Schools are approximately 500 meters apart.
The major change would be a reduction of inter-school transportation services for music and physical
education programs.
Student Transportation Services are outlined in CCRSB Operations Services Policy OS-T-01 which can be
found at http://www.ccrsb.ca/index.php?q=node/221 and the associated Transportation Procedures
that can be located at http://www.ccrsb.ca/sites/default/files/OS-T-01%20Student%20Transportation-
Procedure-Revised-December10'08_0.pdf
Extracurricular Activities 14
The age of students within Primary to Grade Four and the total enrolment does not lend itself to a large
involvement in extracurricular activities. The only extra-curricular activity is after –school crafts offered
once a week for one hour from January to March.
Operational and Capital Requirements 15
There is one project indicated on the 2011/2012 Major Maintenance Repair Projects list for Bass River
Elementary:
Exterior Painting and Cladding Repair $35,000
Catchment Area 16
The catchment or school boundary area for Bass River Elementary is indicated in Figure 2. This
represents no change to the current catchment area for the school.
Operating Costs
Operating Cost per Square Foot 17
The Operating Costs for Bass River Elementary per square foot is $2.68 per sq. ft.
This is derived from a three-year average of annual facility operating costs, including routine
maintenance and utilities $15,977. In comparison with other schools Bass River Elementary is the 23rd
costliest to operate.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 7
September 26, 2012

Bass River Elementary
CROSS ROAD MOUNTAIN
D R A F T
CCRSB
School
Catchment
Areas
Webb Road
Silica Road
Bass River Elementary
WESTCHESTER
MOUNTAIN
= School
SUTHERLAND LAKE
CASTLEREAGH
L
Highway-104
2009 - nmb F O R C C R S B U S E O N L Y
Old Castlereagh Road
LORNEVALE
New Castlereagh Road
New Brittain Road
Mines Bass River Road
Back Road
Mines Bass River Road
MONTROSE
Bass River Elementary School
Maple Avenue
. .
Gerrish Valley Road
Highway-2
Unknown
Starratt Road
Brown Road
Wharf Road
Economy River Road
Highway-2
Wyvern Road
River Phillip Road
Elliot Lane
Economy Point Road
Highway-2
Bentley Branch Road
0 1 2
3
4 5 km
LOWER
ECONOMY
CARRS
BROOK
UPPER
ECONOMY
Little York Road
OOK
Lynn Road
LOWER
FIVE
ISLANDS
LYNN
FIVE ISLANDS
POISON LAKE
BASS RIVER
HIGHLAND
VILLAGE
FIVE HOUSES
SIMPSON LAKE
ECONOMY
MCCORMACK LAKE
PORTAPIQUE
LITTLE BASS RIVER
Blue Sac Road
OWER FIVE ISLANDS

Operating Cost per Student 18
Operating Cost per Student $ 772.05
CCRSB Highest Operating Cost Per Student $1,114.60
CCRSB Lowest Operating Cost Per Student $ 200.73
CCRSB Median Operating Cost per Student $ 560.39
Staffing Costs 19
The staffing costs are the net savings based on the transfer of students to the receiving school.
The net educational cost savings with 0 FTE NSTU reductions $ 0
The net administrative assistant cost savings based on 25 hr./wk. NSGEU $ 0
The net administrative allowance cost savings (principal/VP) NSTU $ 4,547
The net school monitor cost savings per day based on 0.75 hr. /day NSGEU $ 0
The net educational assistant cost of 0 hrs./day NSGEU $ 0
The net In-school Suspension Support of 0 hrs./day $ 0
Subtotal $ 4,457
The net custodial CUPE staff costs savings of .375 FTE $ 16,099
Provincial Funding 29
The funding formula for School Boards, known as the HOGG funding model, was revised for the 2012-13
fiscal year. A number of the revisions had an impact on the funding allocation for CCRSB as it relates to
Property Services associated funding, including but not limited to:
1. Property Services funding allocation was previously based on theoretical square footage dependent
on the number of students. One of the changes implemented was to use a 75%/25% split; 75%
based on enrolment and 25% based on actual square footage.
2. New recognition was provided related to "isolated schools" and "small high schools".
3. Previously there was funding allocated for "small schools". This funding continues to be provided,
on a grand fathered basis only, for ten of our schools. No new "small schools" will receive this
funding unless they also meet the definition of "isolated".
School Review Impact Assessment Page 8
September 26, 2012

Therefore, with any school closure there is a potential for a reduction in CCRSB's funding allocation. In
the 2012-13 fiscal years, that reduction would have equated to $10,200 for Bass River Elementary
School. This would be due to the lost revenue from the grand fathering of previously identified "small
schools" and the funding related to 25% of actual square footage.
Bass River and West Colchester Consolidated are treated as one campus and therefore all educational
costs for both sites are tracked to the West Colchester Consolidated school site.
Operational Services Efficiencies 20
A consolidation of Bass River Elementary within West Colchester Consolidated indicates there are cost
efficiencies.
Property Services annual operating cost reduction $ 15,977
Transportation Services – reduction operating expense $ 1,000
Custodial Staffing Costs Reduction of .375 CUPE FTEs $ 16,099
Total $ 33,076
Major Maintenance Identified 28
There would also be a potential cost avoidance of the noted Major Maintenance Repair Projects of
$35,000. The age and building condition of this school suggests there could be increasing maintenance
projects coming forward in the near future on a planned or emergency basis.
Bass River Elementary School ceasing operations would enable any potential funds being considered for
its projects to be directed to maintenance at other schools. The normal funding allocation within the
CCRSB for all Major Maintenance Projects was reduced from approximately $1 million to $720,000 with
the 2012/2013 budget.
Operational Efficiencies – Education 21
The net savings from Education Services is $ 4,547
School Review Impact Assessment Page 9
September 26, 2012

Total Projected Operational Efficiencies 22
Operational Services Efficiencies combined with Education Operational Efficiencies results projected net
annual efficiencies of:
Relocating all students to the other facilities:
Operational Services $ 33,076
Educational Services $ 4,457
Subtotal $ 37,533
This must be balanced by the anticipated provincial funding
reductions with no longer operating BRE. $ 10,200
Total Projected Operational Efficiencies $ 27,333
There would be a cost avoidance for major maintenance identified of $35,000.
Impact on the Community 31
The closure of a school may potentially impact a community in two major areas. The first is community
identity as the presence of a school, similar to a bank, post office and a grocery store, is an important
component for residents. The school is often regarded with pride and makes the home community
distinct from neighbouring communities. Secondly, residents may also feel that the school is an
attraction in maintaining and developing economic activity in a community.
The physical presence of a school may also be considered integral to the community for its use with nonschool
related activities. These can include use for community events by non-profit groups,
organizations, private/commercial firms and individuals.
The situation with Bass River Elementary is different. Primary to Grade 9 educational services would
continue to be offered in the Bass River Community. Students would be combined at West Colchester
Consolidated which is in close proximity to Bass River Elementary.
It should be noted that if Bass River Elementary is found surplus to the needs of the school board it
would be returned to the operational responsibilities of the Municipality of the County of Colchester.
The County could still choose to operate the facility and the community use could be maintained.
Educational Services 23
The impact on the community may be minimal as the West Colchester Consolidated option is within the
community of Bass River and very close to Bass River Elementary. There should not be a large sense of
loss by the community of educational services within the community as the school infrastructure for
School Review Impact Assessment Page 10
September 26, 2012

Primary to Grade Four remains in Bass River. There may be a sentimental factor in closing a
longstanding community building.
The agreement to use Bass River Elementary as a C@P site has expired though operations continued. It
could remain at the current location under the auspices of Colchester County’s operation of the
building.
Community Use of School 24
The community use of Bass River Elementary School is almost predominately with the external grounds
on an unscheduled basis. West Colchester Consolidated is indicated as the preferred location by the
community for the use of internal facilities such as the gymnasium.
• C@P Site – Federal funds for C@P sites are in question due to announced budget restrictions;
Provincial funds are still available. C@P site hours historically are June – September: Monday,
Tuesday and Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; July & August:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. –
7:30 p.m. During these hours staff is on-site. Programs offered: Programs for Youth, Technology
training for senior.
• Satellite Library is located at the C@P site. Public can borrow books, every 3 rd Thursday from 2:00
p.m. – 7:00 p.m. When the library is open, staff oversees the C@P site during those hours. This is
also a book exchange site for the Colchester-East Hants Regional Library.
• Playground – Presently there are two sets of swings and one wooden playground structure and
some climbing bars/slides at Bass River Elementary (some of this equipment could be moved).
Playground equipment, four sets of swings and a small slide, from another school deemed to be
surplus to the needs of the Board was moved to West Colchester Consolidated for future
installation.
Funds were raised for further development at West Colchester Consolidated and they have secured
approximately $83,000 from various funding sources for a playground/community park. Presently,
West Colchester Consolidated does not have playground equipment.
Infrastructure Development in the Community Area 25
In April 2012 the Municipality of the County of Colchester was contacted regarding infrastructure plans,
including, commercial, industrial or residential planning for the area. Specific information was
requested about any approved development plans for the Bass River area.
In its response the Municipality indicated there are no current plans for infrastructure development for
the next five years which could change the enrolment or population patterns within Bass River
Elementary or West Colchester Consolidated Schools.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 11
September 26, 2012

Small Rural Schools 32
The Chignecto-Central Regional School Board understands the benefits of small, rural schools and
continues to be very supportive of the educational environment that these schools provide for our
students. The very small schools that are involved in this review process certainly provide a rich,
community oriented and positive learning experience for our students. If the review process does result
in the closing of this very small school, the receiving school(s), in all cases, would still provide the same
rich, community oriented, positive learning environment that is so prevalent across our Board. In fact,
some would say that attendance in a slightly larger school may have positive benefits in relation to
socialization and exposure to a wider variety of teachers.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 12
September 26, 2012

Part 3: Proposed Receiving School Information
This section includes information about the school to which students from Bass River Elementary would
relocate under Option Two.
School:
Address:
Principal:
West Colchester Consolidated
27 Maple Avenue, Bass River, N.S. B0M 1B0
Kevin Harnish
Enrolment History and Projections 1
West Colchester Consolidated
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
# 140 127 128 122 119 121 124 116 110 109
Yr. to Yr.
%
Change 0% -9.3% 0.8% -4.7% -2.5% 1.7% 2.5% -6.5% -5.2% -0.9%
2012 Combined Projected Enrolments – 145
(Bass River Elementary & West Colchester Consolidated)
School Configuration 7
Regular Classrooms 11
Gymnasium 1
Labs 3
Library 1
Music 1
School Review Impact Assessment Page 13
September 26, 2012

Current Grades 26
Grade Configuration Enrolment
Grade 5 23
Grade 6 24
Grade 7 28
Grade 8 20
Grade 9 17
Proposed Grades – Projected September 2012 Enrolments 27
Grade Configuration Enrolment
Primary 6
Grade 1 3
Grade 2 5
Grade 3 8
Grade 4 8
Grade 5 20
Grade 6 23
Grade 7 24
Grade 8 28
Grade 9 20
Capability to Deliver a Public School Program
Facility 10
There should not be any changes to the school configuration at West Colchester Consolidated. This is
due to the current configuration of grades 5-9 at West Colchester Consolidated and grades Primary-4 at
Bass River Elementary.
The current additional capacity at the school has enhanced some of the educational services at West
Colchester Consolidated. There would need to be a reorganization of some of the current space
allocation enabling classrooms for P/1/2 and 3/4. For example, the possibility of combining a computer
lab, currently utilizing an additional classroom, within the library has potential. The designation of lower
grades on the first floor of the school and higher grades on the upper floor is possible.
There should be no change to the physical education program as Bass River Elementary students are
already scheduled for its use. There would be no travel requirement from BRE to WCC to attend gym.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 14
September 26, 2012

There would be a reduction in the administrative designation of the vice principal at the Bass River
Elementary site as the population criteria for a consolidated school would not be large enough.
The installation of an external playground area for elementary students would be beneficial. The types
and locations of playgrounds and associated equipment for elementary use continue to evolve. The
playground equipment for elementary use tends to be smaller and in a more compact area.
The school received a rating of 4 out of 5 within the Identification Report regarding the capability to
deliver the Public School Program. This indicated that 80% to 90% of the educational spaces are
adequate. A typical classroom is approximately 900 square feet.
Extra-Curricular Activities 14
A list of extra-curricular activities is included in the appendices.
Physical Condition of Building 4
Accessibility 5/6
Cladding 6/8
Doors & Windows 5/6
Grounds 5.5/6
Electrical 6/12
Fire Alarm & P/A 1/4
Heating 4/8
Interior 12/24
Plumbing 4/6
Roofing 11.5/14
Ventilation 3.5/6
Total 63.5/100
The West Colchester Consolidated School, built in 1961, is a fully accessible facility. Exterior cladding is a
mixture of brick and metal and is considered durable. Most windows and doors are recent upgrades
with only a few replacements required in the short term. The metal gym roof was replaced in 2008 and
approximately 30% of the remaining roof will require replacement in the short term.
Some electrical system upgrades have been performed with more required. The PA and fire alarms are
original systems and are in working condition. The oil tank has been replaced while the boiler is at 50%
of its normal useful life. Flooring, ceilings, interior doors, and finishes would benefit from
refurbishment. The plumbing is representative of a facility of this age. Ventilation is indicative of a
facility of this era with exhaust air only and operates as designed. Minor upgrades are required in the
washrooms. An additional washroom for potential use of lower elementary grade students was
completed in 2012.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 15
September 26, 2012

The addition of an elevator allows access to all three levels of the facility. There is no playground
equipment as would normally be found in an elementary school. Swings and a slide from a school
surplus to the Board have been transferred to the school.
There is a sports field and track on site.
Floor Plan 5
Figure 3 is a floor plan for West Colchester Consolidated and may not reflect all revisions which have
occurred at the school.
Completed Major Maintenance Projects within the previous five years 6
2007/2008 Diesel Tank Replacement 15,000
2008/2009 Roofing (gym section) 100,000
2008/2009 Driveway Paving 110,000
2008/2009 Roofing – Section 80,000
2010/2011 Roofing Replacement-Sections 115,000
2011/2012 Roofing Replacement – Section 95,000
2012/2012 Additional Washroom 41,000
Operational and Capital Requirements 15
The following projects are indicated on the 2011/2012 Major Maintenance Repair Projects list:
Roofing Replacement – Section $ 95,000
Windows & Siding 75,000
Fire Alarm System Replacement 60,000
Boiler Replacement 125,000
Total $355,000
School Review Impact Assessment Page 16
September 26, 2012

Building Use 8
a. Age 50 (1961)
b. Square Footage 24,184
c. Additions n/a
d. Percentage of Bussed Students 77% (92)
e. Original Number of Classrooms 11
f. Estimated Classroom Capacity 22/30
g. Original Capacity (e x f) 282
h. Current Enrolment 119
i. Projected Enrolment (5 Years) 109
j. Current Capacity Utilization (h / g x 100%) 42%
k. Projected Capacity Utilization (i / g x 100%) 39%
Transportation
There would be no transportation changes for West Colchester Consolidated School students.
Student Transportation Services are outlined in CCRSB Operations Services Policy OS-T-01 which can be
found at http://www.ccrsb.ca/index.php?q=node/221 and the associated Transportation Procedures
that can be located at http://www.ccrsb.ca/sites/default/files/OS-T-01%20Student%20Transportation-
Procedure-Revised-December10'08_0.pdf
Catchment Area 16
The catchment or school boundary area for a combined Bass River Elementary and West Colchester
Consolidated School is indicated in Figure 4. This represents no change to the current catchment areas
for the schools.
Closing
The Nova Scotia Department of Education provides guidelines for provincial school boards regarding the
school review process. School boards use these guidelines in the development of their process when
considering a school(s) continues providing education services within a community. The process is most
often an arduous one and it is important that pertinent information is available on which to base a
decision.
This Impact Assessment Report has been written to provide CCRSB with the pertinent information
necessary to make a decision regarding the future operation of Bass River Elementary School.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 17
September 26, 2012

West Colchester Consolidated
2009 - nmb F O R C C R S B U S E O N L Y
Valley Road
Highway-104
Westchester Road
Mines Bass River Road
Reid Road
Highway-104
Back Road
0 1 2
3
4 5 km
..
.
Highway-2
Wentworth Collingwood Road
Unknown
Economy River Road
Economy Point Road
Gerrish Valley Road
RODNEY
FIVE ISLANDS
WYVERN
LOWER
ECONOMY
ECONOMY
CARRS
BROOK
WILLIAMSDALE
BASS RIVER
UPPER
ECONOMY
LITTLE
BASS
RIVER
SUTHERLAND
LAKE
FOLLY
MOUNTAIN
CASTLEREAGH
HIGHLAND
VILLAGE
Soley Cove Road
New Brittain Road
Little York Road
Highway-2
Lynn Road
LOWER
FIVE
ISLANDS
LYNN
MCCORMACK
LAKE
ROSE
ATKINSON
LOWER GREENVILLE
D R A F T
OK
R FIVE ISLANDS
SIMPSON LAKE
CCRSB
School
Catchment
Areas
WENTWORTH
West Colchester Consolidated
= School
HART LA
FOLLY LAKE
LONDONDERRY
EAST FO
LORNEVALE
LONDONDERRY STATION
MONTROSE
EAST VILLAGE
West Colchester Consolidated School
GREAT VILLAGE GLENHOLME
LITTLE DYKE
LOWER DEBERT

APPENDICES
School Review Impact Assessment Page 18
September 26, 2012

Bass River Elementary
Configuration Location Principal Vice-Principal
P-4
139 Maple Avenue
Bass River, N.S.
BOM 1BO
Kevin Harnish
Lisa McCully
Building Use
a. Age 99 (1912)
b. Square Footage 5,953
c. Additions n/a
d. Percentage of Bussed Students 86% (19)
e. Original Number of Classrooms 6
f. Average Number of Students Per Classroom 22
g. Original Capacity (e x f) 132
h. Current Enrolment (as of September 30, 2011) 22
i. Projected Enrolment (5 Years) 23
j. Current Capacity Utilization (h / g x 100%) 17%
k. Projected Capacity Utilization (i / g x 100%) 17%
Regular
Classrooms
Library
6 1
School Review Impact Assessment Page 19
September 26, 2012

Geographic Locations / Community Use
Eligible for community use through the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board’s Use of School
Facilities Policy (OS-G-09).
Two Closest Schools
1. Great Village Elementary – 17 km
2. Chiganois Elementary – 28 km
Capital Construction Plans
N/A – The Province of Nova Scotia has begun a new Capital Construction Submission.
Major Maintenance (from the 2011/2012 list)
Exterior Painting & Cladding Repair $35,000
Property Services Building Condition Index
Accessibility 2/6
Cladding 1/8
Doors & Windows 0/6
Grounds 2/6
Electrical 6/12
Fire Alarm & P/A 1/4
Heating 4/8
Interior 8/24
Plumbing 4/6
Roofing 7/14
Ventilation 3.5/6
Total 38.5/100
Ranked 8 out of 76 schools
School Review Impact Assessment Page 20
September 26, 2012

Enrolments
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
# 33 32 26 23 22 20 18 19 21 21
Yr. to Yr.
%
Change 0% -3.0% -18.8% -11.5% -4.3%
-9.1%
-10.0% 5.6% 10.5% 0%
Trends
(as of September 30 th )
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
Board School Board School
2007-2011 -4.2% -33.3%
2002-2011 -15.4% -62.7%
2012-2016 -3.6% 5.0%
Staff 2011 Staff 2011
NSTU – Teachers 11.4 Administrative Assistant 1.0
Educational Assistants 1 Librarian 0.3
Custodial Staff 0.4
Administrative
Assistant,
Librarian, EA’s
and Teachers
include West
Colchester
Consolidated
Population
Colchester County
Age 2001 2006
0-19 12,735 11,775
20-44 16,650 15,435
45-64 12,635 14,670
65-74 3,835 4,250
75 & over 3,460 3,895
School Review Impact Assessment Page 21
September 26, 2012

Programs: (The ability as a facility to deliver the public school program.)
Minor
Major
Rating: 1 2 3 4 5
Costs
X
Annual total infrastructure operating costs per square foot and average for three years
2008 2009 2010 Average Square Feet $ Per Sq. Ft.
$17,236 $14,574 $16,122 $15,977 5,953 $2.68
Ranked 23 out of 76 schools
Annual wage costs per year includes CUPE, Non-Union, NSGEU, Teacher and average for three years
2008 2009 2010 Average $ Per Student
$14,672* $15,761* $15,890* $15,441* $772.05
Ranked 7 out of 76 schools
*Only includes salaries and benefits tracked to the school site and do not include any regional or family
based costs.
Recommendation
X
Determining factors does indicate further review
Determining factors do not indicate further review
Determining Factors
• Schools with a past enrolment decline exceeding the CCRSB average enrolment decline over the past
5 year fiscal period.
• The physical facilities are unable to support the complete 2003/2004 Public School Program.
• Capacity utilization currently is 50% or less of original school capacity.
• Projected capacity utilization at the end of the next 5 year fiscal period will be 50% or less of original
school capacity.
• Schools rated within the lowest 15% of the building condition index.
• From the wages expenditures assigned to a school, schools within the highest 15% of the wage costs
per student within the CCRSB.
• (No) Alternative educational facility within 30 minutes of travel time between elementary and junior
high schools, and 45 minutes travel time for a high school commonly known as an isolated school.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 22
September 26, 2012

Extra-Curricular Activities
Ball Hockey
Arts & Crafts
School Dances
Activity
Frequency
Once a week for an hour from
November – June
Once a week for an hour from
October – June
Once a month at West Colchester
Consolidated
School Review Impact Assessment Page 23
September 26, 2012

West Colchester Consolidated
Cobequid Family of Schools
Configuration Location Principal Vice-Principal
4-9
27 Maple Avenue
Bass River, N.S.
BOM 1BO
Kevin Harnish
Lisa McCully
Building Use
a. Age 50 (1961)
b. Square Footage 24,184
c. Additions n/a
d. Percentage of Bussed Students 77% (92)
e. Original Number of Classrooms 11
f. Average Number of Students Per Classroom 22/30
g. Original Capacity (e x f) 282
h. Current Enrolment (as of September 30, 2011) 119
i. Projected Enrolment (5 Years) 109
j. Current Capacity Utilization (h / g x 100%) 42%
k. Projected Capacity Utilization (i / g x 100%) 39%
Regular
Classrooms
Gymnasium
Labs
Library
Music
11 1 3 *1 *1
School Review Impact Assessment Page 24
September 26, 2012

Geographic Locations / Community Use
Eligible for community use through the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board’s Use of School
Facilities Policy (OS-G-09).
Two Closest Schools
1. Chiganois Elementary – 28 km
Central Colchester Junior High – 39 km
2. Debert Elementary – 31 km
Central Colchester Junior High – 39 km
Capital Construction Plans
n/a – The Province of Nova Scotia has begun a new Capital Construction Submission.
Major Maintenance (from the 2011/2012 list)
Roofing Replacement – Section $ 95,000
Upgrade Washroom 40,000
Windows & Siding 75,000
Boiler Replacement 125,000
Total $335,000
Property Services Building Condition Index
Accessibility 5/6
Cladding 6/8
Doors & Windows 5/6
Grounds 5.5/6
Electrical 6/12
Fire Alarm & P/A 1/4
Heating 4/8
Interior 12/24
Plumbing 4/6
Roofing 11.5/14
Ventilation 3.5/6
Total 63.5/100
Ranked 34 out of 76 schools
School Review Impact Assessment Page 25
September 26, 2012

Enrolments
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
140 127 128 122 119 121 124 116 110 109
Yr. to Yr.
%
Change 0% -9.3% 0.8% -4.7% -2.5% 1.7% 2.5% -6.5% -5.2% -0.9%
Trends
(as of September 30 th )
Past Enrolments
Projected Enrolments
Board School Board School
2007-2011 -4.2% -15.0%
2002-2011 -15.4% -27.4%
2012-2016 -3.6% -9.9%
Staff 2011 Staff 2011
NSTU – Teachers 11.4 Administrative Assistant 1
Educational Assistants 1 Librarian 0.3
Custodial Staff 2
Administrative
Assistant, EA’s,
Librarian &
Teachers include
Bass River
Elementary
Population
Colchester County
Age 2001 2006
0-19 12,735 11,775
20-44 16,650 15,435
45-64 12,635 14,670
65-74 3,835 4,250
75 & over 3,460 3,895
School Review Impact Assessment Page 26
September 26, 2012

Programs: (The ability as a facility to deliver the public school program.)
Minor
Major
Rating: 1 2 3 4 5
x
Costs
Annual total infrastructure operating costs per square foot and average previous three years
2008 2009 2010 Average Square Feet $ Per Sq. Ft.
$66,355 $47,735 $48,413 $54,168 24,184 $2.24
Ranked 49 out of 76 schools
Annual wage costs per year includes CUPE, Non-Union, NSGEU, Teacher and average for three years
2008 2009 2010 Average $ Per Student
$934,038* $1,155,561* $1,051,407* $1,047,002* $830.95
Ranked 5 out of 76 schools
*Only includes salaries and benefits tracked to the school site and do not include any regional or family
based costs.
Recommendation
Determining factors does indicate further review
X
Determining factors do not indicate further review
Determining Factors
• Schools with a past enrolment decline exceeding the CCRSB average enrolment decline over the past
5 year fiscal period.
• Schools with a projection decline exceeding the CCRSB average projected enrolment decline over the
next 5 year fiscal period.
• Capacity utilization currently is 50% or less of original school capacity.
• Projected capacity utilization at the end of the next 5 year fiscal period will be 50% or less of original
school capacity.
• From the wages expenditures assigned to a school, schools within the highest 15% of wage costs per
student within the CCRSB.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 27
September 26, 2012

Extra-Curricular Activities
Activity Number of Students Frequency
Guitar Club 10 1 hour each week
Leadership Group 20 10 months
Yearbook Group 2 One day a week – February-May
Girls Basketball 12-15 2 hours per week plus games
Boys Basketball 12-15 2 hours per week plus games
Cross Country Running 15-20 2 hours per week
Girls Soccer 17 2 hours per week plus games
Boys Soccer 17-20 2 hours per week plus games
Track & Field 15-20 2 hours per week plus games
Girls Volleyball 10 4 hours twice each week plus games
Ski Club 20 Once a week from January-March
Baseball 20
Five days a week during May & June
during lunch time
Musical 30-40 2 hours per week from April-June
Exploratory 20
6 weeks each term for one hour per
week. Includes: sewing, art,
softball, wall hanging, outdoor
experience, floor hockey and
handcrafts
School Review Impact Assessment Page 28
September 26, 2012

Appendix 2
School Review Process
Evaluation Process for Condition of Schools
The relative condition of these schools was determined by calculating a condition index for
each of the schools identified.
Background information on the calculation of the condition index is as follows:
- Eleven building “system” categories were assigned a maximum point value according to
the approximate cost percentage that would be represented in a building replacement
or renovation project. For example, if the total roof system required replacement it
would represent 14% of construction costs.
The assigned percentages of the building system categories and associated evaluation
considerations are as follows:
- Accessibility (6%) – Maximum points for accessibility to all areas of building including
washrooms on all levels. Accessibility at all entrances also required.
- Cladding (8%) – Durable materials such as brick and steel assigned a greater value than
those requiring increased maintenance such as wood.
- Doors & Windows (6%) – Exterior doors and windows and associated hardware
evaluated.
- Grounds (6%) – Access roadways, parking lots, walkways, and play fields assessed.
- Electrical (12%) – Supply and distribution system and lighting evaluated.
- Fire Alarm and Communication Systems (4%)
- Heating (8%) – Heating equipment, distribution system, and associated controls
assessed.
- Interior (24%) – Flooring, ceilings, interior doors and finishes evaluated.
- Plumbing (6%) – Distribution system and fixtures assessed.
- Roofing (14%) - Condition and age of roofing systems considered.
- Ventilation (6%) - Existing system evaluated.
Property Services staff assigned values to all eleven categories on the basis of condition. For
example, if the total roof system required replacement 0 points would be assigned. If 50% of
the roof area required replacement, seven points would be assigned.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 29
September 26, 2012

Appendix 3
School Review Process
Educational Spaces Ranking
Source – CCRSB staff qualitative assessment. The assessment rating is on a scale of 1 to 5 with
5 being the highest rating compared to the current Department of Education requirements.
Ranking 1 - The majority of educational spaces do not meet program requirements
(0% to 30% of the characteristics are adequate).
Ranking 2 - Some of the educational spaces meet program requirements (40% to 50%
of the characteristics are adequate).
Ranking 3 - Most educational spaces meet program requirements (60% to 70% of the
characteristics are adequate).
Ranking 4 - Educational spaces meet program requirements (80% to 90% plus of the
characteristics are adequate).
Ranking 5 - All educational spaces are considered superior and modern (100% of the
characteristics are adequate).
School Review Impact Assessment Page 30
September 26, 2012

Appendix 4
School Review Process
Determining Factors
1. Schools constructed within the last 15 years will not be subject to review.
Source - Age of school, as of September 2011.
2. P3 schools will not be subject to review.
3. Schools which have undergone a provincially approved addition or alteration
project within the last 10 years will not be subject to review.
Source – Prior NS Department of Education Capital Construction Plans
4. Schools to have operational parameters changed by replacement by the province
with a new school or through a provincial addition and alteration approved project
will not be subject to review.
Source - Nova Scotia Department of Education Approved Capital Construction Plan
5. Schools with a past enrolment decline exceeding the CCRSB average enrolment
decline over the past 5 year fiscal period.
Source – Family of Schools past enrolment data.
6. Schools with a projection decline exceeding the CCRSB average projected
enrolment decline over the next 5 year fiscal period.
Source – Family of Schools, enrolment projections
7. The physical facilities are unable to support the complete 2003/2004 Public School
Program.
Source - CCRSB staff qualitative assessment. The assessment rating is on scale of 1
to 5 with 5 being the highest rating as compared to the current Department of
Education requirements.
8. Capacity utilization currently is 50% or less of original school capacity.
Source - CCRSB Educational Services enrolment projections and school capacity
using original design enrolment size where known or alternatively original number
of classroom educational spaces and with 22 students assigned per space for P – 6
and 30 students for 7 -12.
9. Projected capacity utilization at the end of the next 5 year fiscal period will be 50%
or less of original school capacity.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 31
September 26, 2012

Source -CCRSB Educational Services enrolment projections and school capacity
using original design enrolment size where known or alternatively original number
of classroom educational spaces and with 22 students assigned per space for P – 6
and 30 students for 7 -12.
10. Schools rated within the lowest 15% of the building condition index.
Source - Property Services - Building condition index for associated systems
including: accessibility, cladding, doors and windows, grounds, electrical, fire alarm
and P/A, heating, interior, plumbing, roofing and ventilation. With 76 schools
within the CCRSB, 15% represents the 12 lowest rated schools.
11. Schools within the highest 15% operating costs per square foot within the CCRSB,
averaged over the last three years.
Source - CCRSB financial records. From the total operating expenditures of all costs
related to maintaining and operating the building including maintenance, utilities,
custodial, snow removal and operational (non-educational costs), With 76 schools
within the CCRSB, 15% represents the 12 with the highest cost per square foot.
12. From the wages expenditures assigned to a school, schools within the highest 15%
of wage costs per student within the CCRSB.
Source - CCRSB financial records. With 76 schools within the CCRSB, 15%
represents the 12 with the highest wage cost per student.
13. (No) Alternative educational facility within 30 minutes of travel time between
elementary and junior high schools, and 45 minutes travel time for a high school
commonly known as an isolated school.
Source - Department of Education proposed funding formula
Those schools indicated for further review through an Impact Assessment Report may
contain data, statistics or other information about any of the following:
- Current municipal or provincial plans for infrastructure development within the
Chignecto-Central Regional School Board.
Source: Municipal reference for clearly defined and approved developments
within the next five years.
- Factors relating to student transportation to and from a CCRSB school;
14. Bus transportation to an alternative school would significantly exceed CCRSB travel
time procedures of one hour or be cost prohibitive. (To be identified with schools
determined for further review within the impact Assessment component.)
Source: CCRSB staff assessment
School Review Impact Assessment Page 32
September 26, 2012

- Proposed development, including residential or economic development within
the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board.
15. Municipal approved residential development which will change enrolment or
population patterns. (To be identified with schools determined for further review
within the impact assessment component.)
Source - Municipal reference for clearly defined and approved developments within
the next five years.
School Review Impact Assessment Page 33
September 26, 2012

APPENDIX 5
Data Sources
1. School Information - Enrolment History and Projections
Staffing projections for the following year are calculated through Educational Services.
Each school keeps data which contains September 30 th enrolment from a number of
years in the past, right up to the present. The projected enrolment for the next school
year is calculated using a formula based on enrolment trends (either positive or
negative) for each school for the last 6 years.
2. School Information - Population Patterns
Statistics Canada 2006 Census
3. School Information - Capital Construction Planning
Includes schools currently undergoing Additions and Alterations as approved by the
Nova Scotia Department of Education. Other projects may be considered in the future
following a Request for Submissions from the Department of Education – submitted
April 2012.
4. School Information - Physical Condition of Building
Data provided by CCRSB Property Services Department.
of ratings of components.
Appendix 2 notes explanation
5. School Information - Floor Plan
Plans may be from fire plans at school or from construction plans, more often the
former depending on a year a school was built.
6. School Information -Completed Major Maintenance Projects within the previous five
years
Information obtained from the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board’s Major
Maintenance List as indicated by annual approved Budget documents.
7. School Information - School Configuration
Data provided by CCRSB Property Services Department
8. School Information - Building Use
Information obtained from staff historical data. Capacity utilization determined through
calculation of enrolment/capacity. There is no historical consistency of classroom sizes
School Review Impact Assessment Page 34
September 26, 2012

and enrollment. A conservative assumption used within the Identification Reports is 22
students maximum for elementary schools and 30 students for middle and high schools.
9. School Information - Determining Factors
See Appendix 4
10. Capability to deliver public school program – Facility
See Appendix 3 as determined by Educational Services
11. Capability to deliver public school program - Public School Programming
See Appendix 3 and as determined by Educational Services
12. Capability to deliver public school program - Educational Benefits
See Appendix 3 and as determined by Educational Services
13. Capability to deliver public school program- Transportation
Determined by CCRSB Student Transportation Services
14. Capability to deliver public school program - Extracurricular Activities
Provided by Educational Services Staff
15. Capability to deliver public school program - Operational and Capital Requirements
Information obtained from the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board’s Major
Maintenance List as indicated by annual approved Budget documents.
16. Capability to deliver public school program - Catchment Area
Developed by Student Transportation Staff according to CCRSB Student Transportation
Policies and Procedures
17. Operating Costs - Operating Cost per Square Foot
Data provided by CCRSB Financial Services Department based on 2011/2012 fiscal year.
18. Operating Costs - Operating Cost per Student
Data provided by CCRSB Financial Services Department based on 2011/2012 fiscal year
19. Operating Costs - Staffing Costs
Data provided by CCRSB Financial Services and Educational Services Departments
School Review Impact Assessment Page 35
September 26, 2012

20. Operating Costs - Property Services Efficiencies
Data provided by CCRSB Financial Services and Property Services Departments
21. Operating Costs Operational Efficiencies – Education
Calculation based on data provided by CCRSB Financial and Educational Services
Departments
22. Total Projected - Operational Efficiencies
Calculation based on data provided by CCRSB Financial Services and Property Services
Departments
23. Impact on the Community – Educational Services
Provided by Educational Services
24. Impact on the Community – Community Use of School
Provided by Educational Services
25. Impact on the Community – Infrastructure Development in the Community Area
Response from Municipality in which school resides
26. Proposed Receiving School Information - Current Class Configuration
Provided by Educational Services
27. Proposed Receiving School Information- Proposed Class Configuration – September
2012
Provided by Educational Services
28. Capability to deliver public school program – Operational & Capital Requirements
Information obtained from the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board’s Major
Maintenance List as indicated by annual approved Budget documents.
29. Capability to deliver public school program – Transportation
Determined by CCRSB Student Transportation Services
30. Capability to deliver public school program – Catchment Area
Determined by CCRSB Student Transportation Services
School Review Impact Assessment Page 36
September 26, 2012

31. Impact on the Community
Provided by Operational Services
32. Small Rural Schools
Provided by Educational Services
33. Middle School Configuration
Data provided by Operational and Educational Services Departments
34. Facility Schedule Considerations
Related to East Pictou Middle School Impact Assessment
School Review Impact Assessment Page 37
September 26, 2012

School Review Impact Assessment Page 38
September 26, 2012