It was a busy week in Ballyadams NS last week where a long-serving teacher retired and another teacher moved to a new school in Wexford.
As well as that there were visits from a number of former pupils who had experienced GAA success recently, including members of the Laois ladies football team and the St Joseph’s minor side.
Mrs Martina Burke retired from Ballyadams after over 24 years of service and dedication to the school community.
In a very special whole-school celebration each class performed a wonderful medley of songs, poetry and musical performance to show their affection and gratitude to Mrs Burke.
The children presented Mrs Burke with gifts on the day and a few tears were shed as the children sung the famous Slievenamon of Mrs Burke’s native Tipperary.
Afterwards there was a gathering of Mrs Burke’s colleagues, former colleagues, school guests and friends.
“We are all very grateful to Mrs Burke for her phenomenal contribution to the children and school community in Ballyadams NS throughout her entire career,” said principal Rory Stapleton.
“We wish Martina and her family every happiness and blessing in the next exciting chapter of her life.”
Last week the boys and girls and staff in Ballyadams also celebrated the career of Ms Deirdre Rowan who has moved to her new school in Co Wexford.
“Ms Rowan has been a wonderful teacher in Ballyadams NS for many years,” added Mr Stapleton.
“And all in the school were delighted to be able to celebrate her time in Ballyadams N.S and enjoy a delicious slice of caca milís afterwards! The children presented Ms Rowan with bespoke St Joseph’s jersey designed by local company Nelligan Sports on the day.
To crown a week of celebration the children were treated to a visit by their local GAA heroes.
Former pupil and Laois Ladies player Sinéad Farrelly and Laois Ladies player Laura Nerney visited the children with the All Ireland Cup to the delight of the children.
“The boys and girls also welcomed the victorious St Joseph’s Minor A football hampions to the school.
The boys claimed the first Minor A Championship for the club in over 50 years and it was a joy to welcome back so many of our former pupils. All the local heroes took time to answer questions from the children and inspire the stars of the future.”
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