Warm tributes as Aideen departs

The first principal of Fermoy Educate Together Primary School, Aideen Maher is departing for pastures new.

Very few teachers, never mind principals, start out with just two pupils, however, that was the total enrolment when Aideen took up her position 4 years ago. During her tenure, pupil numbers have continued to increase year on year and this trend is set to continue.

WONDERFUL SEND OFF

Aideen has made a huge impression at Fermoy Educate Together, who occupy part of the ‘old’ gaelscoil in Fermoy. Prior to that, they operated from Fermoy Community Youth Centre. Tributes, warm wishes and the odd tear flowed last Friday as board of management members, parents’ association representatives, fellow teachers and pupils gave Aideen a send-off to remember.

Presentations were made by Samir Peizkovic (parents’ assoc.) and Mike Walsh (board of management). The departing principal was described as ‘ caring, compassionate and always motivated by what was best for pupils’.

Responding, Aideen said she was touched by the tributes. She thanked everyone associated with the celebrations.

“My time at Educate Together in Fermoy may be coming to an end, however, I firmly believe it’s just the start of a really exciting time for everyone associated with this great school. Huge strides have been made and I’ve no doubt, the school’s development will continue under the guidance of Toni,” (new principal, Antonia Lynn) she said.

Speaking to The Avondhu, Antonia said that Aideen had been ‘an inspiration to all’ during her time as principal. Conceding she had ‘big shoes to fill’, Antonia, who is from Glenroe in south Limerick, said she is really looking forward to her new role.