St Mary's NS Knockbridge

Mrs Rankin retires.

On December 21st, we bid a fond farewell to Mrs Rankin, our deputy principal who retired after 38 years teaching in Scoil Naomh Mhuire. A special mass attended by parents, past pupils, friends, family and the entire school was celebrated by Fr. Gerard Mc Ginnity. The readings were given by Ann Gallagher and Robert Brennan, both past pupils who were in Mrs. Rankin's first class in 1973. The school choir conducted by Mrs. Farren, assisted by Ms. Hanafin and accompanied by Orla Mc Geeney on the organ, provided the beautiful music for the mass. Following the ceremony, Mrs Rankin planted a tree in the school grounds. This was followed by a presentation in Halla Setanta.

Fr. Mc Ginnity, Chairperson of the Board of Management, praised her commitment and dedication to the school and made a presentation to her on behalf of the Board Of Management.

Mr. Mc Donnell spoke of the great respect she commanded as a teacher and the positive influence she was to generations of Knockbridge children, many of whom had returned to pay tribute to her. He then called on Bronagh, (whose uncle was in Mrs. Rankin's first class) and Eva and Renee, (the youngest pupils in the school) to make presentations on behalf of the parents and pupils.

Mrs. Rankin thanked all in attendance and spoke of the great joy it was to work in the Knockbridge community. Much to the delight of the children, she was then very surprised when Santa himself arrived with a very special gift for her.

The school choir performed a medley of Christmas songs and refreshments were served to all in attendance.

Below is a slideshow of photos taken during the day. They were kindly supplied by Mrs. Mary McArdle, Corderry.