April 30 is certain to be an emotional day for current students and many alumni of Western Secondary School. On that Saturday, everyone is invited to an open house farewell event to officially celebrate the school which has been a fixture of the Amherstburg community since it welcomed its first students in 1971.

At the end of this school year, Western Secondary will be amalgamating with General Amherst High School to become the new North Star High School.

Established as a vocational school for students from across the county, Western Secondary School has provided learning through hands-on experiences for its students over the years.

Trades training has included:

* auto repair and auto detailing

* small engines

* welding

* hospitality and baking

* manufacturing

* horticulture

* cosmetology

* construction/woodworking

Programs at Western Secondary School have changed over the years, but there have always been a variety of learning opportunities to suit all students with learning disabilities.

The current programs include:

* a Diploma stream, designed for students aiming to complete the requirements for a high school diploma

* a MAPS (My Achievement Pathway to Success) stream, designed for students aiming to complete the requirements for a certificate

* a STEPS (Skills To Enhance Personal Success) program which was launched just four years ago

Western Secondary School has been very active in several sports organizations. Many years ago, it was part of the Western Ontario Athletic Association (WOAA). Students would play and participate in different sports against other vocational schools in Western Ontario, namely Century Secondary School, as well as schools from Sarnia and London, Ontario.

As programs and funding changed, the school began to participate in the Windsor and Essex County Secondary Schools Athletic Association (WECSSAA). At one time, Western had teams participating in volleyball, basketball, soccer and swimming meets. More recently, Western has moved towards intramural and lunchtime activity sports programs to serve the students.

At its peak, there were nearly 700 students attending Western Secondary School. Today there are approximately 175 that make up the student body.  The same decline has been noted in the staff numbers due to enrolment and programming changes.

One notable teacher, Mr. Draz Chuk, was hired as the history teacher when the school first opened its doors and retired only a few short years ago. It’s certain that many a Western alumni will recognize his name.
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For students, staff and families, Western Secondary School has been home for many years. The imminent closure of the school has brought mixed feelings to the student community. While some will be moving forward to the new North Star High School, also located in Amherstburg, other students will be going to schools closer to their homes. We wish them all the very best.

Image provided by Western Secondary School