Former principal remembered in Baylin as extension opened

The legacy of a past teacher and principal of St Ciaran's National School in Baylin was remembered last week when a new extension of the school was officially opened in her memory.

Agnes Hatton worked in the school from 1965 until her retirement in 2000 and played a significant role in the education of generations of local children.

The new extension now has a plaque erected on its walls in her memory, something which current principal Pat Canty hopes she would be proud of.

"Her contribution to the school was immense," he said at a small ceremony on Friday which was attended by Agnes' family, staff both past and present, and members of both the Parents' Association and the Board of Management.

"Her dedication to education was unwavering, and her interests from outside of school were brought into the classroom to enhance the teaching and learning that took place there. Whether it was her love of Gaelic games, history, quizzes, music or arts and crafts, everything was done to an exceptionally high standard."

Mr Canty noted how Agnes, who passed away in 2016, spearheaded an extension for the school in the 90s, and while the pupils of the school today may not know her, he said the plaque would be a constant reminder of her impact on the school and the wider community.

Agnes' husband George said that he and his children Freda, David and Kenneth and his grandchildren Christopher and Georgia really appreciated the effort that was put into remembering Agnes.

"It's not something that she ever would have wanted or expected, but she would have been honoured because she really gave 100% effort to this school," he said.

That sentiment was echoed by Freda who said that having her mother's name on the wall of the building gives the family a great sense of pride.

"When we were growing up we all saw her dedication and commitment to the school, both in terms of the students and the actual building itself.

"She actually taught us all as well, but we didn't know any different," Freda explained. "It was a small country school so it was normal for us."

Speaking about the extension itself, Pat said that they had projected the need for more classroom space in 2015, despite having only received an extension in 2013.

"We just saw the numbers growing and growing every year," he said. "We normally send out a survey to parents to see if they know of anybody who may be interested in coming to the school, and the numbers have really grown in the last six years."

The planning application process began in 2015, but work didn't begin until August 2020 and the doors of the extension opened on September 1 of this year.

The school now comprises of the original building which contains two classrooms, an office and a learning support room, three classrooms from the 2013 extension, as well as two classrooms and a staffroom from the latest extension.

Tribute was paid to the builder of the project Ivan Buckley who Pat said "went over and above what was expected of him."

"Ivan spent a lot more than 9-5 in this school, and it comes through in the standard of work. He was in here until 10pm some nights, working Saturdays and Sundays."

Pat also thanked neighbours of the school who had great patience with the work that was ongoing.

Chairman of the Board of Management Ignatius Lynam said the the extension of the school was "the least troublesome project" that he was involved with, noting the collaborative approach between the builders, contractors, Board of Management and the Parents' Association.

"It has been a privilege to work with this Board of Management. This is my second term as chairman and the experience I have had has only been positive."

Gifts were also presented to Ita Murray, recently retired secretary of the school, and Elizabeth Murray, a retired friend and colleague of Agnes who worked alongside her for many years.

Also present was Fr Joe McGrath who, along with six student representatives from various classes, blessed the school.