School Newsletter-February 2021

Due to the high rate of COVID-19 in the community coupled with unprecedented hospital admissions, it was decided that schools would remain closed for the month of February.

Sixth Class pupils received notification from both St. Nathy’s College and St. Joseph’s Community College that they are now accepting enrolments for those who wish to enrol for September 2021. The Principal of St. Nathy’s invited pupils to visit their website to take a virtual tour of the school, while St. Joseph’s website provided an online open night video presentation. Again this is a different experience to that of previous Sixth Class pupils, but sadly a consequence of the high levels of COVID-19 present in the country.

Another collection of copies and completed assignments was organised and on the following weekend, at the end of mid-term, pupils’ packs were ready for distribution for the next period of distance learning. Both undertakings were arranged in a safe manner. Once again the quality of pupils’ work was very high.

We wished Mrs. Shevlin well as she began her maternity leave following the mid-term break. We also welcomed Ms. Jennifer Waldron who will replace Mrs. Shevlin while she is on leave.

It was with absolute delight that we received the news that pupils from Junior Infants to Fourth Class would be returning to school on March 1^st. While for the most part, only pupils up to Second Class will be returning, it was decided by Government that in instances where Third and Fourth Classes are in the same classroom as Second Class, those children should also return. Parents are required to sign a ‘Return to School’ declaration form on behalf of their child/children, while staff members must sign a ‘Return to Work’ form. The school underwent a thorough deep clean in preparation for the return of staff and pupils. Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer has made a special appeal to parents, not to congregate at school gates or to organise play-dates in order to further suppress infection rates. School Staff eagerly look forward to welcoming back pupils and having face to face interaction once more.

We wish to thank Ms. Orna Fahey for her support and expertise during the school closure.