Today, we gathered as a school community to celebrate 35 years of dedicated teaching by our esteemed colleague, Mrs. Eithne Harper. Eithne has served our school and the wider community with passion, care, and remarkable patience—truly fulfilling her vocation as an educator.
Throughout her career, Eithne has led with compassion and commitment, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. She has been a cornerstone of our school community—selflessly and compassionately caring for each and every pupil under her guidance. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, Eithne has been a mentor to many, always approachable and willing to support those around her.
Her legacy will continue to ripple through the walls of our school, especially in the Foundation Stage, where she has paved the way for effective, engaging teaching and learning. Through limitless and enriching experiences, Eithne has helped children develop their phonics, numeracy, and love of learning. Alongside Mrs. Treanor, she is among the first to welcome our pupils into P1, meeting them in their earliest, most formative years—young, innocent, and impressionable. Together, they lay the essential foundations, making children feel valued, cared for, and seen.
Mrs. Harper has always upheld and embodied every value of our school with professionalism and deep respect.
The Mass was a true celebration of Mrs. Harper’s service, with the entire school community coming together to mark this special occasion. Mr. Fox and Mrs. Mohan prepared the music for the service, and the children’s singing brought a sense of joy and reverence to the celebration. Mrs. Fox and Mrs. McElroy sang a moving rendition of For Good from the musical Wicked—a piece whose lyrics reflect the profound and lasting impact Eithne has had on our school and all who have passed through it.
Mr. McCaughey and Mr. Morgan created two beautiful original pieces of art and poetry to commemorate Eithne’s career. Scripture readings were led by Mr. McAleer and Mr. Lennon, chosen to reflect the essence of Mrs. Harper’s vocation and her role as a teacher. We extend sincere thanks to Fr. Cathal for leading the service, and to all who helped prepare the children and the chapel for this beautiful celebration of Eithne’s 35 impactful years at St. Mary’s Primary School, Aughnacloy.
To Mrs. Harper, from all of us—past and present—thank you. Thank you for being a remarkable teacher, a compassionate mentor, and a dedicated leader. You have given your life to educating and preparing children to live full, independent lives. You have cared, supported, and above all, loved.
We wish you many years of health, happiness, and peace as you begin this new chapter. May you stay safe, and may God walk beside you in all that lies ahead.
God bless you, Mrs. Harper.
