Athlone School Principal Dean Kelly NS Resigns After 12 Years

After twelve and a half years as headteacher of Dean Kelly NS, Laura Casey has stepped down and will take up a position as a classroom teacher at the school in Athlone from September.

As the headmistress’s term of office came to an end last week, the Knockcroghery woman was honoured by pupils at the school who sang a song in her memory called Mrs Casey, set to the tune of Simon & Garfunkel’s Mrs Robinson.

The school has appointed its current deputy headteacher, Bríd McCoy, as its new headteacher.

Laura Casey joins Dean Kelly NS from Brideswell NS where she was Principal for three and a half years.

Over the last twelve years as Headteacher at Batteries, she has demonstrated leadership and an unwavering commitment to education.

“Working with such a great team of teachers and having the full support of the local community is an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Laura Independent Westmeath.

“Together we have created a school where every child feels valued and has the opportunity to reach their potential.”

She mentioned some of the initiatives she and the staff have been able to implement over the past several years, including the chess club, debating, multiple sports, ABC assemblies, the Book of Brilliant Behavior, the ecology team, gardening, the school choir, the sports club, and the student government.

Laura said her emphasis on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment has improved academic performance and strengthened the sense of community among students, teachers and parents.

One of the school’s parents, Shauna Warby, whose son Ethan has just finished sixth grade, appreciated the contribution Laura has made as principal.

“Laura was always very approachable and happy to talk to you,” said Shauna, who served on the school’s board of trustees.

“She worked incredibly hard for all the boys in the school. The school is very inclusive and there is a great sense of everyone working together in a happy environment with a student-centred approach.”

Laura Casey said as she looks to the future she is excited to return to her roots as a teacher in September.

“I miss the direct interaction with students and the joy of teaching,” she said. “I can’t wait to spend more time with my young family while inspiring and educating the boys in the classroom.”

She described Bríd McCoy’s promotion to principal as a “wonderful appointment” for the school.

“Bríd has worked at Dean Kelly NS for over 20 years and will continue to lead the school with energy, compassion and commitment as we celebrate our centenary in 2025.”

In addition to her work at the school, Laura qualified as a life, personal and business coach last year after a year of training with the Irish Lifecoach Institute.

She recently started a part-time life consulting business that aims to support parents, children, teenagers, and educators.

Laura expressed her gratitude to current and former staff who have supported her, as well as parents and the local community in Batteries and the surrounding area who have always worked with her to ensure that students have the best opportunities at school.

*For more information about Laura Casey’s life coaching services, please visit www.coachlaura.ie or by contacting her directly at: [email protected]