THE children in 6th class from Scoil Bhríde, Convoy will get the opportunity to see each other one more time tomorrow evening, Friday, before they set off on their secondary school journeys in September.
The school is organising a drive-in graduation for the twenty-nine boys and girls who are set to continue their education at schools in either Raphoe or Stranorlar.
Teacher Mandi McDaid explained that they were determined to give the children the opportunity to see each other off before secondary school.
“They’re a lovely class and they deserved a proper send-off. Normally, we would have a graduation day in the school but Covid-19 has forced us to rethink how we do things. Our Principal Grainne Reid was only too delighted to give the ‘drive in’ graduation the go ahead,” Ms McDaid said.
Teachers and members of the school’s Board of Management have been working tirelessly in recent days putting in place bunting, flags and balloons to make sure that Scoil Bhríde is looking incredible ahead of the celebrations.
Ms McDaid paid tribute to all the pupils graduating and thanked those parents whose time associated with the school had come to an end.
“To those families who are finishing up with us in Scoil Bhríde, we would like to thank you for your years of support and we wish all of your families the very best of everything for the future.”
Ms McDaid said that while the pupils have missed out on certain things, they had plenty to look forward to.
“Unfortunately, our year was cut short and the boys and girls didn’t get to make their Confirmation. The school tour was also postponed but they’ve been lucky enough to have made some amazing memories and friendships which will be carried into secondary school and beyond,” she said.
Local musician Christy Murray, who teaches tin whistle classes in the school, will lead the music while Parish Priest, Fr Eamonn Kelly, and Mary McDermott, Chairperson of the Board of Management will both address the children.
Shared memories from their time at the school will be relayed via video onto a giant screen as the children leave their parents and siblings in the car to receive their graduation certificates and hoodies. There will also be a number of academic awards.
After they receive their graduation certificates the children will no doubt depart on a tour of the town beeping their horns in delight.
“While we want to provide this opportunity for the children, we also have to ensure every person is safe. We’re working closely with the local Gardai to ensure that everybody adheres to the social distancing rules. We’re looking forward to a fantastic turnout and a great night for the children and parents alike,” Ms McDaid said.
The graduation, which had initially been pencilled in for this evening, Thursday, has been switched to Friday evening at 5pm.
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