The popular History and Spanish teacher has been an integral member of the Deele College community for over three decades and today she was honoured for her sterling service to both the school and the wider Raphe community during her tenure.
After graduating from University College Galway, Noelle began her career in the school as a French and History teacher in 1980 and the promotion of European languages was always an important facet of her work in the school. Indeed, it was noted that the thriving Spanish department in Deele College was built upon the foundations laid by her in the early years of the school.
Students and staff, both past and present congregated today to mark the occasion and to highlight many of Noelle’s achievements during her time at the school. MC for the event was Gearoidin Brady and she welcomed Noelle and also her daughter, Rebecca, her son, David and her grandchildren.
Her involvement in European projects, like ERASMUS and Comenius, was highlighted, which has led to Deele College playing a central role in the collaboration between EU countries in the area of languages, with the school becoming one of the first Irish schools to host European teachers last year.
A noted Camogie player in her youth, Miss Ryan was heavily involved in sport in the school in the early part of her career and in the latter part of her career, she was the designated Home School Community Liaison Teacher.
This role involved providing a link between the school and the community, while also offering help and support to students and parents, in times of need. Noelle carried out this role for eleven years and helped a lot of families in the Raphoe catchment area and this was noted by various speakers today.
Another facet of her work as a teacher involved the promotion of the school tour, with Noelle spearheading many educational trips to places like Italy, Spain and France, where students were given the opportunity to sample different cultures and immerse themselves in the languages they were studying.
Presentations were made to Miss Ryan on behalf of the History Department, the Spanish Department and the school management.
School Principal, Mr Joe Boyle said that while Noelle would be missed by both staff and students, she should be very proud of a distinguished career as a teacher and mentor to the young people of the Raphoe area.
“I would like to wish Noelle all the best in her retirement. After thirty-eight years of service, she certainly deserves a long and happy retirement. Her career here in Deele College is certainly one to be proud of and I know that she will be missed by staff and students alike.”
Deputy Principal, Mr Danny McFadden reiterated the best wishes expressed by Mr Boyle and said that Noelle’s passion and commitment for both teaching and for the school would be greatly missed.
“Having worked alongside Noelle over the past number of years, I know how much dedication and energy she put into everything she did at the school. Her presence will be missed but I would like to wish her all the best for a long and happy retirement.”
