A student’s plea to save school
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‘Your home away from home’ is how one Leaving Cert student described St Mary’s College in Ballisodare.
Speaking to the large gathering of parents, students and community members, Leaving Cert student Emma Jackson detailed her experience of attending the secondary school, and described how teachers go above and beyond what is expected of them.
“When I was picking my secondary school there was absolutely no question about where I was going to go, for me it was St Mary’s College.”
The Leaving Cert student cited the fact that the school was small as being one of the reaons for her choice.
“It was small, safe, local, and it was close to what I was used to because I went to school in St John’s up the road. It was a bit like the theme tune for the American sitcom ‘Cheers’, you want to be where everybody knows your name, and they do,” the student said.
Ms Jackson told those gathered that what she loves about the school was that it was ‘Your home away from home’.
“Whether your parents and grandparents went there, or whether you’re completely first generation of St Mary’s, it’s most evident by those who have moved to St Mary’s from different schools, different counties, or different countries, yet feel as integral to the school community as the student who had been living in Ballisodare all their lives.”
Describing the school as a place that gives ‘everyone chances’, the student explained that students are given chances to try the choir, music club, a sports team or the musical, among many other extra curricular activities.
“I must credit some of the most hard-working teachers that you will find anywhere. Every day we see them going the extra mile to make sure we have everything we need...and to make sure we’re doing ok...”
Detailing her own personal experiences, Jackson said during a spell of ill health last month.
“The support I received was unreal. Phonecalls, cards and even a bag of chocolate to fuel the recovery...purely making sure I was ok. I knew if I needed any extra support when I returned to school all I needed to do was ask.”
Jackson went on to say, “It’s more than just a job for them, because they do so much, more than what they’re paid to do.”
The student admitted that the school was not perfect, adding that it needed ‘funding, interest, new ideas and support’.
“We’re not to be overlooked. I think the fact that students from within the school are willing to fight to keep it open speaks volumes...We all need to take it upon ourselves to plug the school for everything it actually does, and to dispel misconceptions.”
Ms Jackson concluded by telling those present that the worst thing that had ever happened to her in the school, was the day she was told the decision had been made to close the school.
“We can’t let that happen. We must give this opportunity to future St Mary’s students. St Mary’s must have a future,” said Jackson, gaining loud applause from those seated.