DONEGAL Education and Training Board (ETB) has appointed Ms Ashlean McGeehan as the new Deputy Principal of Finn Valley College in Stranorlar.
She replaces retiring Deputy Principal, Ms Kathleen Boland.
Originally from Ballybofey, Ashlean previously taught in Magh Éne College in Bundoran before moving to Finn Valley College in 2011.
She holds a Bachelor of Business Studies (Hons), a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Teaching Methods, a Master’s degree in Computing and Information Systems, and a Higher Diploma in Computing for Educators.
She has also completed extensive educational leadership training, including Leadership in Education with Hibernia College, and holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Coaching.
In her role as a Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) Coordinator, Ashlean has contributed significantly to strategic planning, curriculum development, student wellbeing, and parental engagement.
She has always supported a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous improvement within her work.
Ashlean has also established strong links with local primary schools, businesses, and community organisations through her work as Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) Coordinator and current Chairperson of the Board of Management at Finn Valley College.
She brings further experience from previous roles, which included Digital Communications and Social Media Manager and Chairperson of the Regional Adult Literacy Coalition.
Newly appointed Finn Valley College Deputy Principal Ashlean McGeehan with Donegal ETB’s Director of Schools, Dr Martin Gormley.
Speaking about her appointment, Ashlean said: “I am deeply proud to serve the community in which I live and work, and I’m passionate about strengthening links between the school, families, local businesses, and community organisations.
“I am committed to supporting academic success through clear goal-setting, high expectations, and innovative teaching practices, while empowering students to become leaders and independent learners.”
Finn Valley College, which is managed by Donegal ETB, has a school population of almost 450 students and 75 staff members, led by Principal Seán McFadden.
It plays a central role in the educational life of its community, providing a broad, inclusive, and student-centred second-level education.
As a DEIS post-primary school, it is committed to promoting high expectations, academic success, and positive outcomes for all learners.
Congratulating Ashlean on her appointment, Dr Martin Gormley, Director of Schools with Donegal ETB, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Ashlean to the senior leadership and management team of Finn Valley College.
“I congratulate her on her well-deserved appointment and wish her every success as she takes up her new role alongside Principal Seán McFadden.
“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Kathleen Boland, the outgoing Deputy Principal, for her dedication and contribution to the school over the past forty years.’’
Finn Valley College is one of fifteen of the county’s twenty-seven post-primary schools under the management of Donegal ETB, the largest education and training provider in the county.
In the previous academic year 2024-2025, over 6,000 students attended Donegal ETB post-primary schools.
The appointment comes as the school has enrolled the highest number of students in its history, which will see it continue to enhance teaching and learning, respond to national curriculum reform, and prepare students to thrive in an evolving educational landscape.
Ashlean takes up her appointment later this month.
