Mrs. Ann Ward, Principal, has bid farewell to Gurteen NS, a school she had dedicated over 36 years to since its opening in 1981. Prior to that she worked in Shanballard N.S. for 5 years until its closure when both Shanballard and Tample schools amalgamated. Since becoming Principal a few years ago, she has transformed the school that had severely decreasing numbers to the hugely successful 3 teacher school it is today. Many children have passed through her teaching prowess and there’s very few who escaped her ballads and singing classes given her love for music and singing. Generations of children who passed through the school would have very fond memories of their time under her wing.
Mrs Ward leaves behind a great legacy as she leaves the school in a great position, as strong as it has ever been. We only hope that her successor can live up to her reputation! There was a surprise farewell party for her at the school yesterday with loads of food and plenty of entertainment provided by the children in the form of poetry, singing and video clips. Mr. Noel Treacy, chairman of the Board of Management thanked Mrs. Ward for her tireless work in her teaching career with a warm, enthusiastic and caring approach for all children while Fr. Raymond Sweeney also paid huge tribute to her work. Mr. Seamus Walsh spoke on behalf of the teaching staff and acknowledged that her presence would be sorely missed in the school. It is a testament to her teaching career that 3 of her children have followed in her teaching footsteps.
There was also a presentation to Jon Hempsed as the last of his 3 boys leave for secondary school, in honour of his trojan voluntary efforts in the school over the last number of years. As Mrs.Ward & Jon Hempsted walked out the door yesterday, on the last day of the school year, I’m sure there were plenty of mixed emotions. All in the community wish Mrs. Ward the very best in her retirement and thanks for all you’ve done and achieved during your time in Gurteen NS. Photo compliments of Brad Anderson shows Ann pictured in her classroom on the last day of her teaching career.
