Pictures: Retiring principal feted by Kilkenny school and community

After an extraordinary career in education, Geraldine Patterson has officially retired from her role as Principal of Johnswell National School — an occasion that was marked with deep gratitude and celebration by the local community.

To honour her retirement, the Johnswell community came together in a spirit of appreciation and thanksgiving. A special Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated in St John the Baptist Church, Johnswell, over the weekend.
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The ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to Ms Patterson’s years of service, with parishioners, former colleagues, families, and past pupils in attendance. Words of gratitude were expressed for her tireless dedication, her encouragement of young minds, and her role in fostering a warm, inclusive, and supportive school environment.

Ms Patterson dedicated an impressive 32 years of her life to teaching at Johnswell NS, shaping the lives of countless pupils through her commitment, kindness, and love of learning. For the past eight years, she has served as principal, guiding the school with vision, care, and leadership that left a lasting impact on both staff and students.