School community bids farewell to long-serving Limerick principal on her retirement

SOMETIMES the great legacy left behind by wonderful people is spoken of when it is too late, after they have left the building or moved on to other projects, said Roger Corcoran.

The deputy principal of Scoil na Tríonóide Naofa in Doon said they did not want this to happen to someone like Eilis Casey, who has retired as principal. 

Teachers, board of management, parents council and students gathered together to say farewell.

“She has devoted so much time and made so many personal sacrifices in her life over the past 13 very successful years educating a generation of learners in Doon and the surrounding areas – nine of which were served as principal in Scoil na Trionoide Naofa,” said Mr Corcoran.

Ms Casey taught English in Mayo, Tipperary and Limerick city before arriving in East Limerick in 2009.

“You were an excellent leader, teacher, colleague and friend. You gave countless hours of service to our school. You were extremely hardworking and committed and always a brilliant sounding board for advice. We are so appreciative and full of gratitude to you. You will be a huge loss to our school community,” said Mr Corcorcan.

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Ms Casey realised a dream of former principals by effectively overseeing a building project and successfully amalgamating three schools, he said.

“You were known for your care, compassion and passion for teaching and learning. Throughout the principal network Ms Casey is held in such high esteem by her colleagues. You have been nothing short of a colossus for the profession. You are a women of great integrity who has left a tremendous legacy after you,” said Mr Corcoran.

He spoke of Ms Casey’s vision and foresight which is testament to the super campus they have today, a centre of education that has quickly become the envy of towns county-wide.

“It takes a big heart to help shape little minds. You will always be remembered with gratitude by this community of board members, teachers, staff, parents and, of course, students."

“Today we salute you, you are the primary reason that students have dreamed to do extraordinary things. Oh yes, there were the motivating shouts at students on the corridors but this was all part of Ms Casey’s big plan to provide the backdrop for scores of pupils under her tutelage to ‘dream big to surpass your wildest dreams’,” said Mr Corcoran, who on behalf of the school community wished Ms Casey many happy, healthy and fun-filled days ahead.

Ciara Eichholz, a past pupil and school captain, was commissioned to produce a portrait of two very close friends of Ms Casey, on behalf of the students of Scoil na Trionoide Naofa. 

School captains Sophie Quaid and Paddy O’Donnell, along with Mr O’Brien, presented her with a sporting momento.

New principal Helena Foley, formerly of Glenstal Abbey School, commenced her role on Thursday.