Mountrath students discuss inclusivity with Minister Norma Foley

Three students from Mountrath Community School met with Minister for Education Norma Foley TD this week.

This occurred at the Cineáltas Showcase in Croke Park, which the school were invited to attend on Wednesday September 25.

Fifth year students Eugene Boleyko and Caoimhe Dunne, along with second year student Abbie Khumalo, were afforded the opportunity to discuss the measures their school takes to promote kindness.

"Our students spoke about different events and activities that occur in our school during the year that emphasise and celebrate inclusivity, anti-bullying and our student leadership throughout the school, all of which embed kindness and respect while giving everyone their own voice," a representative of the school explained.

Pictured: Minister Norma Foley with staff and students from Mountrath Community School

Accompanied by teacher Miss White and Deputy Principal and Miss Byrne, the student highlighted the work done by the Mountrath school through the 'Sharing of Best Practices' presentation.

The Minister of Education, Norma Foley, was present and spoke to all students about their school endeavours.

"Some of these events include, Fright Night for 1st Years, our Anti-Bullying week, our Multicultural week," they said.

"Stand-Up Week and the many jersey days we hold recognising different groups in society. Our student leadership begins with our first years with the new addition of Class Captains this year and continues with the Student Council, Meitheal and 6th Yr Prefects," the school said.

Pictured: Mountrath Community School students speaking with Minister Foley.

Student Eugene Boleyko co-hosted the event alongside the Acting Assistant Secretary, Cliodhna O’Neill, who has responsibility for the Schools Division in the Department of Education.

The event included speeches from Norma Foley and Bernie McNally, the Secretary General. The school commended Eugene for an outstanding job on the day.  

"The day itself was very successful, sharing and learning from other schools what Cineáltas (Kindness), looks like in other schools all around the country," the school said.

"Mountrath Community School is very proud of what we do but as always it’s a work in progress. In today’s world kindness is so important. Bí cineálta!" they finished.