LARRY’S RIVER — Nine months after Guysborough County’s Acadian community opened its new French-language school, enrollment has risen from 21 to 24 students, according to the latest figures from the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial (CSAP).
CSAP communications director Stephanie Comeau confirmed in a text message to The Journal last week that when École Belle-Baie began in Sept. 2023, holding classes in the community hall, “We had 16 [students]. Last year [2024-25], we had 21. This year, we have [enrolled] 24 as of August.”
Local historian, educator, author and activist Jude Avery said the news reflects more than just numbers. For him, it is proof that a younger generation of Acadian families is reclaiming its language and culture, and that the community is renewing itself around the school. “The school [being] at 23 or 24 … that’s really, really good news,” he said in a telephone interview.
The signs seemed promising last December when École Belle-Baie began hosting classes in its then-new $5-million modular building, funded under the provincial government’s school capital program. The facility includes classrooms, a staff room, offices and common areas.
At the official launch in early March, visitors were guided through the building by students, who marked the occasion with performances, poems and music honouring Acadian heritage. A mural project, framed with wood from Larry’s River’s original schoolhouse, was launched to highlight local history and culture.
At the time, Principal Nicole Avery-Bell called the celebration “better than we ever expected,” describing the turnout of more than 60 people, including families, community members and government representatives, as “just amazing ... There’s pride because the building is beautiful, but also because it’s a real validation of our community … finally.”
For Pomquet student Kyle Delorey, who performed at the opening, the meaning was personal. Describing the day as “Incroyable,” he added: “No matter what I do, I don’t plan on leaving. This is home.”
The school’s arrival is also being viewed widely as a landmark for the area’s broader Acadian communities, which for decades had no French-language option within reasonable proximity.
“This is an historic moment – the beginning of a place where students can learn, dream and grow in French,” CSAP board president Diane Racette said at the opening. “École Belle-Baie is much more than just a building: it is a symbol of resilience, culture and hope.”
The province has indicated its intention to build a permanent brick-and-mortar school once enrollment is higher. With that enrollment now at 24, Avery noted the growth reflects a new momentum for a long-overlooked community.
“It’s in the hands of a younger generation … they are much more connected … and for us, it’s a major [change],” he said.
