Legacy of leadership: Lorraine Harney retires from Coosan NS

A deeply sentimental occasion took place at Coosan National School last week, as the school community gathered to celebrate the remarkable career of Lorraine Harney, whose retirement marks the end of an era.

Spanning an impressive 33 years, Ms Harney's time at the school saw her hold various roles from teacher to, more recently, deputy principal. Tributes paid to her at Tuesday's event outlined how she had made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

Memories of Ms Harney's various involvements over the years were painted across the four walls of the Coosan NS sports hall, as old photos and artwork created by students for the occasion displayed the life and work of a much-loved teacher.

On the day, friends and colleagues, past and present, as well as family members, gathered to honour her legacy, joined by current and former board of management chairpersons, Fr Pat Murphy and Fr Declan Shannon.

St Mary's Parish Administrator Fr Murphy, who arrived in Athlone three and a half years ago, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt tribute to Ms Harney’s dedication and character.

"You have enriched the lives of so many over the years - both of pupils and staff - by your kindness, your care, your dedication and your professionalism," he said.

"I know that you've been generous in giving them your time, sharing of your talents, and I think, particularly, of the wonderful music that has been provided down through the years."

He thanked Ms Harney for the decades she dedicated to guiding generations of children as they grew “in faith and in love”.

"You have played a significant role in the lives of many, the life of this school, the building of the body of Christ, and helping children to grow that profound sense of who they are."

Fr Declan Shannon spoke about Lorraine’s unique contribution to the lives of those she encountered over the years.

"Lorraine, to me, what defines your contribution to this school, to education and to this community is your ability and gift to recognise the whole person and not just their academic need," said Fr Declan.

"Your thoughtfulness is your lasting legacy; whether that was your genuine care for the child struggling to fit in and find their place, or your ability to listen to the worried parent and help to allay their fears, or your sensitivity to the colleague who you knew was carrying the weight of a silent worry, or your willingness to do a quiet act of goodness that others might never know but could make a huge difference in their life."

A particularly touching moment came when Athlone A Cappella, a choir with which Lorraine is deeply involved, made a surprise appearance much to the delight of those gathered.

"We are another family that Lorraine belongs to. A lot of secret practice went on behind the scenes," said Athlone A Cappella Musical Director, Hilary Roche.

The choir opened its performance with 'The Lord’s Prayer', a piece which Hillary noted held special significance for Ms Harney and the extended Feeney family.

Lorraine then joined her choral family for a moving performance of Coldplay’s 'Fix You', followed by a poignant rendition of 'A Million Dreams' from the hit film, The Greatest Showman.

Coosan NS principal Stephen Cunningham shared his immense gratitude for the countless contributions Lorraine has made, leaving a lasting impact on the school and the wider Coosan community.

He also took the opportunity to thank the staff in Coosan for everything they had done in preparation for Lorraine's celebration.

“So how do I sum up a career of 33 years of exceptional service and contribution by an extraordinary professional, colleague, and dear friend? The answer is simple: I can't," said Mr Cunningham.

"From the very first phone conversation we had, I could sense you were a very special person. What I didn’t know was how important you would become in my life. I’m sure others here today will feel the very same."

He added: "For Lorraine, it is about the children, her friends or colleagues, her family, and her community. Every decision, every minute of the day, is about putting the most important people in her life first.

"Her attention to detail, her quiet determination to do everything on her lists. She does this for the children, and for the good of the school.

"You have given so much to this school and this community. This school represents everything good about you. Pupils are happy and busy, people feel welcome, and staff are happy, valued, and want to be a part of everything. You’ve been central to the creation and sustainment of all of this."

Mr Cunningham continued by highlighting the relationship Lorraine has had with her colleagues in Coosan NS, noting how she always had a special way of making time for everyone.

He added: “Great teachers and leaders inspire others to achieve their potential and their dreams. What Lorraine Harney has done is to inspire multiple generations, and a whole community, to achieve things beyond their imagination."

Críochnaigh Mr Cunningham le:

"Lorraine, ar do scor ón scoil, guímid go léir, ádh, sláinte an bhradáin agus sonas ort, lá i ndiaidh lae. Is caillteanas mór é do phobal na scoile go bhfuil tú ag imeacht. Tá do leithéid déanta agat. Ní faic fágtha.

"Ná déan dearmad, beidh tú i gcónaí i gcroílár clann an Chuasáin. Ní bheidh do leithéid arís ann."