THERE were mixed emotions in Baldoyle this month as St Laurence’s National School said farewell to one of its best-loved teachers.
Surrounded by a host of well-wishers, including colleagues, friends, family and past pupils, Martin Sammon retired after almost 40 years of teaching in Baldoyle.
Generations of past pupils paid glowing tributes to one of the school’s most popular teachers, recalling his classes as a mix of laughter and learning.
“It was an honour to have been taught by such a gentleman,
? said one former student.
Another past pupil stated:
“I think I progressed more during my year in his class than at any other time in my education. School became a good place to go, free of fear or worry – and all because of the skill and personality of Mr Sammon.
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Martin was also described as
“a decent, gifted, skilled, patient and wonderful human being
? who made childhood that bit easier for his pupils.
Principal of St Laurence’s National School, Donal O’Donoghue, said Martin Sammon had given tremendous service to Baldoyle.
“He is held in the highest esteem and with enormous affection by pupils, past and present, parents, colleagues and the entire community,
? he stated.
“We wish Martin well in his retirement and while we will miss him enormously, we are all so appreciative of his total commitment, dedication and professionalism as a teacher, colleague and friend.
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Formerly known as St Peter and Paul’s BNS, it was renamed St Laurence’s after merging with St Mary’s Girls’ National School in 2013.