Hyde Park Primary School staff and pupils said farewell to secretary Merle Allison, 65, by throwing her a retirement party on April 21, the very same date she started work at the Fairways school 47 years ago.
“The children made farewell cards with beautiful messages and verses and some of them bought me gifts,” said Ms Allison.
She said she had had many memorable moments working at the school, but her farewell party was one of the most memorable.
She has worked under four principals over the years including the current one, Malcolm Pinto, who has held the position since 2018.
Ms Allison plans to travel during her retirement and spend more time with family and friends. “I hope to travel in the near future and explore our beautiful country,” she said.
Mr Pinto said Ms Allison’s departure would be a “huge adjustment for all at school”.
She would always be remembered as “the one who knew everyone in the department, and she dealt with officials and parents alike, which allowed me to concentrate on other things”.
