Peadar says fond farewell to his students

By Nicole Duffy January 31 marked the end of the teaching career of a man who has dedicated his life to the education of the children, as long-standing principal of Shercock National School, Peadar Mohan retired. Peadar had been principal of the school since 1984 and has spent over 40 years teaching in the locality. A wonderful celebration was held in St Patricks Hall, Shercock, in his honour, and the massive turnout reflected the high esteem in which Peadar is held by the community. Friends, neighbours and members of the local clergy attended the celebrations, along with staff and students of the school, both past and present. Peadar was also joined by his sisters Nuala and Assumpta, his brother-in-law Paul and his two nieces Aimee and Nicole. The night was hosted by local business man Plunkett O'Reilly who proved to be a very impressive and humorous MC. Plunkett spoke of Peadar's strong influence on the community where many regard him as a local hero. He stated that Peadar is a man of great generosity who is actively involved in many local charities and all aspects of the community such as bingo, drama and the running of the Credit Union. Peadar encouraged generosity with numerous annual fundraisers in which pupils, under his leadership, worked to help those less fortunate than themselves. Plunkett also reminded the crowd that the occasion was a happy one because although we may be sorry to see him go, Peadar is retiring in wonderful health. A short prayer service was held by local priest Fr Oliver O'Reilly and his predecessor Fr Charlie O'Gorman, during which one child from each class read a prayer for their former principal. Fr Charlie described Peadar as a "diplomat to his fingertips" and praised him on his huge contribution to creating a friendly learning environment, without discrimination of any kind. Tom O'Brien also gave Peadar terrific praise while speaking on behalf of the school's Board of Management. He stated that Peadar's dedication to the school was undeniable, adding that he was able to name every one of his former pupils and continued to maintain an interest in their lives. He also reminded the crowd that Peadar never once sought thanks for his work, and many of his good deeds were often left unnoticed. One of the most moving moments of the night was that of the presentation of a book of memoirs from his time at Shercock National School to Peadar by vice-principal Marion Dempsey. Marion acknowledged the good example of retirement set by former teachers Aine DeVere and Betty Burns and urged him to follow in their footsteps and enjoy every second of his free time. A smile was brought to the lips of past pupils as Peadar was also presented with an inscribed pen. Fond memories were resurrected because Peadar himself has presented each graduating student of Shercock National School with a similar pen on their final day of school for many years now. Congratulations on finally graduating Master Mohan! Peadar said that he was honoured by the impressive attendance at the celebrations and thanked his family for all their love and support throughout the years. Peadar urged everyone to do their bit to make Shercock an enjoyable place to live and stressed that community development was a very rewarding experience. Formal proceedings then came to a close when Peadar's niece, Aimee Carroll presented an exquisite cake created by Pearl Dickson and the crowd applauded to celebrate the career of their friend.