Today is a bitter-sweet day for us all here in Scoil Mhuire Fatima as we say goodbye to our longest-serving staff member, Special Needs Assistant Margaret Mary Muldowney.
On one hand, we are happy to celebrate her retirement, but on the other, we are very sad to say goodbye.
In typical Margaret Mary fashion, we held a small gathering (after she reluctantly agreed to it!) in the hall with the staff, the children and Margaret Mary's family. The walls of the school hall had been decorated with art created especially for Margaret Mary. She was blown away by the Autumn and Timahoe themed art.
Parish Priest, Fr David Vard, presided over a beautiful retirement prayer service. Margaret Mary's granddaughter Úna read the first reading and sixth class students led the prayers of the faithful. The school choir were outstanding under the guidance of Damien Bowe.
Following the service, there were a number of speeches and presentations acknowledging Margaret Mary’s accomplishments throughout her career.
Grandchildren Sam and Grace from junior infants presented Margaret Mary with a collaborative art piece. Annette's creative talents and attention to detail were evident in the beautiful canvas that every child and staff member in the school had a hand in creating.
Just when we thought it was all over, sixth class ended proceedings with their own impromptu song. "There is only one Margaret Mary"
We extend our grateful appreciation to Margaret Mary for her many years of hard work, commitment and dedication to Scoil Mhuire Fatima. We are very thankful for the kindness, compassion and support that she has given to the children over the years. We wish Margaret Mary every blessing for the future.
Happy Retirement Margaret Mary.
