Update on Brannoxtown NS
Brannoxtown NS is to remain open as a one-teacher school until enrolment numbers justify further appointments, writes Brian Byrne.
The meeting was attended by eight officials representing various responsibilities within the Department, and the future of the school was discussed at length. There are currently two pupils enrolled.
"The school is open and there are no plans to close it," Gerry O'Donoghue told the Diary afterwards. It is important to remember that the status of the school is not just about present needs or even just the present cohort of students, it is also about the future needs for primary school places. It is also about its position at the heart of the community."
He noted that not a single person who has spoken publicly in recent times has wanted to see the school being closed, and that everyone who spoke publicly also 'expressed complete satisfaction with the quality of education provided'.
"The unusual situation in which the school finds itself is particular and unique," he emphasised. "There have been attempts at national media level to draw parallels between Brannoxtown and other schools which are experiencing difficulties. These case are also unique and have nothing in common with Brannoxtown."
