On June 23rd 2017 a special celebration was held to mark the retirement of our principal, Mrs. Christine Fitzsimons. The entire school community gathered together with Christine’s family and friends to attend Mass in the parish church.
Our pupils had been planning for a very long time to make this day a special one for their principal. Their magnificent singing and their reverent participation in the liturgy most certainly contributed to the beautiful ceremony. Many tributes were paid to Christine and we prayed that she would have a long and happy retirement with her loved ones. Afterwards, everyone returned to the school and enjoyed a fantastic party in the Halla.
Christine joined the staff of Scoil Maria Assumpta in 1984. She was appointed deputy principal in 2007 and she assumed the position of principal in 2010. Under Christine’s leadership, the school grew and flourished. Christine has always been eager to implement innovative programmes and projects. Her work in the area of special education has been highly significant and she was instrumental in opening our ASD Unit. Christine displayed a very positive attitude throughout her teaching career and she was known for her practical, down-to-earth approach to work.
Scoil Maria Assumpta has always held a really special place in Christine’s heart as she is a native of Ballyphehane. She is a former pupil of our school and of Presentation Secondary School. Our pupils, their parents and many of their grandparents are well known to Christine and she takes a genuine interest in their lives and in their achievements.
Each week at Assembly, Christine would encourage the children, celebrate their talents and remind them to always do their best.
Christine worked hard to ensure that the school was a happy place for the children and staff and she fostered a supportive environment for all.
Christine has a great love of sport and no-one was more proud of the successes enjoyed by our camogie, Gaelic football and soccer players than the principal herself.
Christine’s generosity has touched the lives of all at Scoil Maria Assumpta. She ensured that the children’s birthdays were remembered and that their good deeds were rewarded. Christine brightened up many a rainy day for the staff by bringing in a delicious treat at lunchtime. Her fantastic sense of humour also helped to keep everyone in good spirits.
Christine has been an exceptional colleague and a dear friend. She has supported us with kindness and compassion in times of joy and sorrow. We will miss our wonderful principal so much and we wish her every happiness in her well deserved retirement.
The school will close for the holidays on June 30th. Have a great summer from all at Scoil Maria Assumpta!