Today the staff of Ballyneale NS and pupils from Junior Infants to Sixth Class gathered in the school yard to mark their final day with Principal Michael McHale who retires on the 27th February. The student council spoke about their appreciation for all Mr. McHale’s hard work and dedication to the school. They then introduced a representative from each classroom who gave Mr. McHale a token of their appreciation. Infants made Mr. McHale a huge card, wrote him a poem, drew him some pictures of things he could do in retirement and made a big banner for the day. First and second class wrote him letters and created art work with messages. Mr. McHale’s third and fourth class drew self portraits with messages and presented it to him in a booklet. Fifth and sixth class wrote Mr. McHale letters wishing him well. Individual students also presented Mr. McHale with some of their art and craft work. To finish off the farewell, Cormac played the accordion and Jane from Jane’s montessori led the fifth and sixth class in two songs. One of the songs was penned by Jane herself about Mr. McHale. Jane presented Mr. McHale with his own personalised cd of the track. Principal McHale thanked all the pupils for their gratitude and all their beautiful art work and input running up to the day. All the pupils and staff wish Mr. McHale all the very best in his retirement and will miss him greatly.