THERE WAS surprise amongst the education community of Wexford when the principal of one of the biggest schools in the country announced his retirement which will be effective from July.
Pat Goff, who was a member of the teaching staff in Scoil Mhuire, Coolcotts for 32 years (18 as principal, 14 as deputy principal) made the announcement via the school’s blog after informing the Board of Management of the school.
He will be taking up a role as the Deputy CEO of the Irish Primary Principals Network, an organisation which he acted as President of in the past.
He will not be the only retiree as two other long-serving teachers, Miriam Lenihan (also in the school since 1983) and Nick Sheridan will be leaving the school too.
Speaking to this newspaper, Pat said: “I will be very sad leaving this summer, yet proud of what we have achieved in Scoil Mhuire working together in partnership. Yes we have a fine school building, but it is only as good as the people in it. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated, talented and hardworking staff that is always prepared to go the extra mile.”
[Full story in this week’s Echo]
