Hundreds gather at Kilkenny national school to say goodbye to retiring principal

Hundreds gathered at Listerlin National School in Kilkenny recently to say goodbye to its beloved retiring principal. 

Over 200 people arrived at the school to bid farewell to Principal Bill Cassin after 23 years, and to celebrate the rededication of Scoil Mholainge Listerlin to St Moling. The school flags fluttered in the breeze as some of the 152 students welcomed the community to take in the state-of-the-art primary school with interactive walls and a large PE hall. 

Fr Liam Barron celebrated the Children’s Mass in the large play area with schoolchildren leading the mass with their prayers and songs. During the mass, Michelle Brennan was presented with a bouquet of flowers to celebrate her 25 years as the school cleaner, a pivotal member of the school community. 

Ms Julie Prendiville was also presented with a bouquet of flowers as Principal Cassin passed the baton to her, as she progresses from Deputy Principal to Principal. 

Chairperson of the Board of Management John Paul Phelan recalled the incredible commitment that Cassin has shown over the years, from school initiatives and building works to hurling.

Supported by his family and friends, Principal Cassin thanked the staff and school community for making his journey an enjoyable and rewarding one. He noted how happy he was every day coming over the hill to teach the students of Listerlin and how lucky and happy the staff are working with such a supportive community. 

As the community enjoyed tea, cakes and sandwiches, they were entertained by Scoil Mholainge’s talented Irish dancers in the school hall. To end an incredible evening, Principal Cassin took to the large school hurling field as the school league referee for one last time. 

The two teams were managed by Scoil Mholainge’s past pupils and u-20 Kilkenny players Danny Glennon and Lar Murphy. 

League medals were presented by past pupil and Kilkenny player Walter Walsh. The school wishes Principal Cassin a happy and healthy retirement. Go néirí an bóthar leat.