Dear Parent / Guardian, Colleague & Board Member,   

Seán Nyhan R.I.P – Our founding Principal of 1972 was buried this afternoon in St Patrick’s Cemetery Clonmel. Sean taught in Ballymacarbry between 1962-1982, 10 years at Newtown N.S. and a further decade here at the Central School.  In fact he left in ’82 to establish St Oliver’s NS at Heywood Road Clonmel. “Fear lách, éirimiúil, cabharach deisbhéalach ab ea é. Anyone who was fortunate enough to be taught by Seán, or who taught with Seán will hold many happy memories in their hearts. He was a friend to many, a lovely teacher, a remarkable principal, a truly great man. Leaba i measc na naomh agus an Gael go raibh aige.” – Excerpt from Mrs Kelly’s facebook tribute to Seán.  Condolences to all the extended Nyhan family, especially Emer, her son Gavin and daughter Niamh who are both past pupils of their Grandad’s legacy. Niamh continues the profession of her mother and late grandfather.

Covid 19 Update – The current figure of cases who as of yet have not returned to school stands at 6. The average attendance for the week has been 90%. Isolation periods for U-13’s who have contracted the virus or are deemed close contacts can range from anywhere between 7-14 days depending on circumstances. If you are unsure please feel free to contact the school. Alternatively it is advisable to consult this HSE guide Latest Isolation Quick Guide U-13’s Teachers can be contacted via email using the handle (firstname)@ballymacans.com

Vision & Hearing Screening –Testing for Junior Infant pupils took place at the school on Wednesday last. A second run will take place next Wednesday for those who were absent. Please contact the school if you have any further queries.

St. Valentine’s Day – In line with tradition at our school, pupils are encouraged to wear colours associated with St. Valentine on Monday next 14^th February. St Valentine is the patron saint of love and his remains now form part of a shrine at Whitefriar St. Church in the heart of Dublin city.

Mid Term Break – Reminder that the school will close on Thursday 24^th and Friday 25^th February 2022.

Sacraments – Reminder that the Sacrament of Penance will take place on Wednesday 9^th March at 7 pm in FMW church for all those in Rang 2. We also hope to have the Commitment Ceremony / Ceremony of Light for all those Rang 6 confirmation candidates on the week commencing 4^th April again at FMW church.

Altar Servers – Fr. Toomey will meet with those from Rang 4-6 who have volunteered to become altar servers at FMW church next Wednesday between 2-3pm. Leaflets have been distributed to relevant  pupils.

Golden Jubilee – If anyone has any old photos or articles in relation to the school or indeed is interested in helping out in advance of our anniversary this autumn, please feel free to get in touch at 052 6136349 or ballymacns@gmail.com

Is mise,

Michael J. O’ Ryan.

Principal.