Principal of Athlone's Dean Kelly NS steps down after 12 years
After twelve and a half years as principal of Dean Kelly NS, Laura Casey has stepped down from the position and will instead be assuming the role of classroom teacher at the Athlone school from September.
As her tenure as principal came to an end last week, the Knockcroghery woman was serenaded by the school's pupils who sang a tribute song, 'Mrs Casey', to the tune of Simon & Garfunkel's, 'Mrs Robinson'.
The school has appointed its current deputy principal, Bríd McCoy, to become the new principal.
Laura Casey came to Dean Kelly NS from Brideswell NS, where she had been principal for three and a half years.
During the last twelve years as principal at the school in the Batteries, she was renowned for her leadership and unwavering commitment to education.
"Working with such an amazing team of teachers and being supported whole-heartedly by the local community has been an incredibly rewarding experience," Laura told the Westmeath Independent.
"Together we have created a school where every child feels valued and empowered to reach their potential."
She mentioned some of the initiatives that she and the staff had been able to operate over the last dozen years, including the chess club, debating, multiple sports, ABC assemblies, 'Book of Brilliant Behaviour', green team, gardening, school choir, athletics club and student council.
Laura said she placed a strategic focus on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, and that this had improved academic performance and also strengthened the sense of community among students, teachers, and parents.
One parent at the school, Shauna Warby, whose son Ethan just finished sixth class, paid tribute to the contribution which Laura made as principal.
"Laura was always very approachable, and she would always chat things through with you," said Shauna, who served on the school's board of management.
"She worked extremely hard for all of the boys in the school. The school is very inclusive and there's a great sense of everybody working together, in a happy environment, with a student-centred approach."
Looking ahead, Laura Casey said she was excited to return to her roots as a classroom teacher in September.
"I miss the direct interaction with students and the joy of teaching," she shared. "I am looking forward to having more time to spend with my young family while continuing to inspire and educate the boys in the classroom."
She described Bríd McCoy's promotion to the role of principal as "a wonderful appointment" for the school.
"Bríd has worked in Dean Kelly NS for over 20 years and will continue to lead the school with energy, compassion and commitment as we mark our centenary in 2025."
Outside of her work in the school, Laura qualified last year as a life, personal and business coach following a one-year course with the Irish Lifecoach Institute.
She recently launched a part-time life coaching business aimed at supporting parents, children, teens, and education professionals.
Laura expressed gratitude to the staff past and present who supported her, and to the parents and local community of the Batteries and surrounding area who have always worked alongside her to give the pupils the best opportunities in school.
* More information about Laura Casey's life coaching services can be found by visiting www.coachlaura.ie or by contacting her directly at: laura@coachlaura.ie