Dear Parents, Colleagues, Board members,

 

Deepest Sympathies

We extend the sympathies of the entire school community to Ita O’Brien and family on the death of her sister, Mairead (Gretta) Tobin, during the week. Ita was a teacher at our school for many years and retired as principal in 2012. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.

 

Congrats

Congratulations to Ms Duggan (Rg 5 teacher) and her fiancé Seán on their recent engagement during mid-term. Long life, health and happiness to them both.

 

Ethos

Today our Rg 6 pupils participated in a preconfirmation retreat at our school along with their peers at Newcastle N.S. The event was hosted by Fr Pat Cahill and his helpers at Holy family Mission, Glencomeragh. Confirmation will take place on Tues 10^th March at both local churches.

Our Rg 2 pupils will have their First Penance Service on Wednesday evening next in FMW at 7pm.

 

Family Quiz

We have 18 families interested in attending our Family Quiz Night on Thursday 26^th March in the Centre. We will proceed as advertised. Here is the link for families to register. Family Quiz Night Expression of Interest Form

 

World Book Day.

The P.A. will run a book sale on the 5^th of March to coincide with World Book Day. They are requesting children/parents to drop pre-loved books to the school next week. Children are asked to bring in €3 to get a book on the day. Thanks to those who have already contributed. Children can dress up as their favourite ‘literary character’ on the day.

 

Coach.

Our coach will be with us again for these next two Wednesdays. So hurleys and helmets at the ready, please!

 

Message from the Principal

I wish to inform you that last night the Board of Management has kindly granted me a Career Break from my role as Principal of Ballymacarbry N.S., in line with Department regulations. I informed staff and board members of my intention prior to submitting my request in late January and, now that it has been approved, I feel it is important to inform the wider school community.

I have no doubt that the school will continue to be very well led and supported. From late August, Ms Franey will assume the role of Acting Principal during my absence, with the Board of Management overseeing the transition and ensuring continuity in the day-to-day running of the school.

I would like to sincerely thank successive Chairs, Boards of Management and officers; successive Parents’ Association Chairs and officers; and indeed, those staff and parents who have supported me throughout my tenure — especially over these past few years. I look forward to the same cooperation upon my return. We are very fortunate to have such wonderful pupils, and long may that continue.

In a school where I was a pupil, a teacher and now principal, it is a privilege to hold this responsible position and, although I will be stepping aside temporarily, I remain very proud of the many achievements and improvements initiated during my time. There is much to do between now and August and, with your continued support, I hope to continue in the vein to which we have become accustomed over the past 14 years. Míle buíochas agus bí cineálta.

 

Is mise

Michael J. O’Ryan

Principal.