October 27 marked an emotional day for the community of Clondra and the staff and pupils of Scoil Mhuire, as they bade farewell and happy retirement to a much-loved principal and friend, Colette McManus. Colleagues describe Colette as a remarkable person and principal – a force of nature who combines so many wonderful qualities: intelligence, compassion, kindness, common sense and humour, to mention just a few. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO Colette McManus graduated from St Patrick’s College, Dublin, in 1988. She spent two years in Knockcommon Primary School in Meath, and then came to Clondra for a short spell from September-March 1990. After a few months in St Michael’s NS, Longford, Colette returned to Clondra as principal in October 1991. A Roscommon native, albeit from only a couple of miles across the Shannon, Colette has found a special place in the hearts of the community in Clondra where she is loved and respected for her hard work and dedication to their school and local children for the past 32 years. In 2009, after years of negotiation, paperwork and planning, work began on a large extension, incorporating 4 classrooms, which took the school into a new era for pupils, parents and staff. The current building is spacious, modern and comfortable – a great place to work and learn. The official opening in 2011 was the culmination of a huge amount of work initiated and driven by Colette. That drive and determination never waned and in summer 2023 Colette oversaw refurbishment of the school yard – a fabulous facility for the children of the school. It’s true to say that the building and yard stand as a testament to Colette’s ambition, determination and ability. She leaves behind wonderful facilities for future generations of children to enjoy. Colette’s retirement celebration began in St Brendan’s Church, Clondra, with Fr Turlough Baxter welcoming Colette’s family, pupils, parents, staff and friends. He spoke of the gratitude of the entire community for Colette’s contribution over the
PICTURES | 'Brilliant teacher, brilliant Mammy, brilliant friend' - Longford pays glowing tribute to retiring Clondra NS principal
Caption: Colette McManus who is retiring after serving as Clondra National School Principal for 32 years is pictured with her pupils last Friday Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Colette McManus accepts a bouquet of flowers from Latisha Doyle Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Retiring principal of Scoil Mhuire, Clondra Colette McManus (4th from left) pictured with staff; Paula MacEoin, Melissa Hussey, Dayna Doherty, Irene Rabbitte, Sheila Stephenson, Fiona Reilly, Aisling Hoey, Sinead McCarrick and Ann Marie Carleton Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Colette McManus with mom Ita Kelly Picture: Shelley Corcoran
