Ballinagar NS bids fond farewell to teacher

The pupils and staff of St Joseph’s NS, Ballinagar, said goodbye to teacher Helen McElligott on Friday, October 2 last as she retired after 21 years of teaching service at the school.

Helen took up her teaching position in Ballinagar in September 1999, having taught in Tullamore for several years prior to that.

Paying tribute to her colleague in her speech on Friday, Deputy Principal Sheila Lynam described Helen as efficient, hardworking, and kind to the children in her care.

“Helen has a solution for every problem”, said Sheila, “and would never shy away from helping anyone in need, over and above the call of duty. She never said no when asked to do anything. As a member of staff, she is supportive, chatty, unselfish and giving,” she said in tribute.

During her time in Ballinagar, Helen was instrumental in promoting the Green Schools programme, an environmental management and education programme for schools, of which several awards and Green Flags were presented to the school.

The pupils lined out on Friday for an emotional farewell in the schoolyard, having decorated the gym in handmade cards. Presentations were made, with several former staff members turning up to pay tribute to their colleague.

The staff, management, and children wish Helen a long and happy retirement, with good health and peace of mind.

Go n-éirí an bother leí i gcónaí.