Mangaluru: Tears were shed and smiles were shared on October 17 as the St Theresa’s School family bid farewell to Janet Noronha, a primary school teacher who has served at the institution for a little over 19 years.
The event began with a small prayer, a prayer song, and a prayer dance by the faculty of the institution.
Owing to the Corona pandemic, only a few members of the management, teachers, non-teaching staff, and parents’ representatives attended the event.
A few of the teachers and parents delivered short speeches expressing their love and thanking her for all the guide and support that she has rendered over the years for the little kids of the institution to rise and shine.
On the occasion, Janet Noronha was felicitated by the Secretary and the Principal.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal Sr. Philomene Saldanha expressed her gratitude and stated how much the school and the children would miss her contribution for the past 19 years and four months.
Secretary of Bethany Educational Society and Correspondent of the School Sr. Mariette B. S., addressing the gathering, informed that this is the institution’s 25th year and lamented that they were not able to celebrate the milestone due to the pandemic. She also informed that 100 per cent of the students who appeared for the 10 standard board exams passed.
Later, a farewell song was sung by the teachers, wishing her a fabulous life full of happiness and cheer. A video message from some of Mrs. Janet’s former students was also played.
In a unique gesture, teachers spoke and sang in different languages namely English, Kannada, Konkani, Hindi, and Tulu.
Overwhelmed and emotional, Mrs. Janet spoke a few words speaking about her experiences and promised to stay connected with the school even in her post retirement years.
The programme was compered by teachers Sangeetha Vas and Guen Pereira. Vote of thanks was by teacher Nishitha.
Vice Principal Sr. Lourdes, teaching, non- teaching faculty, a few parent representatives of St. Theresa’s School, and Mrs. Janet’s daughter and son were also present.
