Laois secondary school celebrates 25th anniversary with launch of special book

THE launch of a 440-page bumper jubilee yearbook is just one of the many events set to mark a day of events to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Coláiste Íosagáin secondary school in Portarlington.

The book, which has been edited and compiled by former teacher at the school, Peter Lowry, will be launched following a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Denis Nulty in St Michael’s Church at 3 pm. The opening of a time capsule from 2000 will also take place, immediately after the Mass.

According to Peter Lowry: “The yearbook itself is a superbly crafted achievement, comprehensive, technically excellent and yet retaining a warmth for its subjects all through.” Mr Lowry said the scale of this undertaking was daunting, to collect and distil the essence of a very vibrant and ever-increasing school community over such a timespan.

But, he adds, “This is no ordinary book – it’s an impressive 440-page tome packed with colourful memories that chart so many realms of school life over a quarter century with a deft touch.” Hailing the book as such a bright and positive publication and a lovely way mark the Jubilee, principal of Scoil Coláiste Íosagáin, Justin Brown, said: “Those who planted the seed of amalgamation all those years ago would/should be proud of the fact that we have blossomed into a thriving school of over 1100 pupils serving Portarlington and its environs.

“A Jubilee is a time for reflection and thanksgiving. This publication helps us do both. I would like to acknowledge Peter for facilitating this and my colleague Brigid for all the work she put in. I would also like to thank everyone who contributed to this Jubilee Book. It is fitting that the front and back covers were designed by students – that is what we are about as a school, our students – they are the beginning and end of all we do.

“But this celebration is not just about looking back. It is about standing firmly in the present and looking ahead with hope. Hope – that powerful force that drives us to keep striving, keep believing and keep growing.” Although most of the credit for putting the history of Coláiste Íosagáin into a 440-page book goes to Peter Lowry, he is not afraid to credit his collaborator, Brigid Gilligan, the many photographers, amateur and professional, whose work was crucial to the process, typist Eileen Ryan and the professionalism and accommodating nature of Mochua Print and Design.

The Jubilee Yearbook is available from the school, the Parish Office and most local shops and is priced at €25.