TWO leaders from St Brigid’s State School Chaplain April Coogan and Guidance Officer Dayna Donsky, were farewelled last Friday.
Principal Duane Wann described them “as caring and passionate” and congratulated them on their professionalism and dedication to the school and its students.
Chaplain Coogan has been part of the St Brigid School community for seven years.
She told those gathered at her farewell that she had found her time at the school rewarding and memorable.
“After spending time in America working as a camp counsellor and program director for four years, I returned to Australia and found a job through the Catholic parish here at St Brigid’s,” Ms Coogan said.
“One of my biggest goals has been about building connections within families, children, the parish and the parishioners.
“In the first few years I worked hard to build and grow these relationships while supporting the school staff with different elements of the Catholic faith.”
Through establishing a Care and Concern group, networks have been built, and care packages and food have been distributed to those in need.
“By being able to help and provide to families makes me feel that I am doing what God wants me to do, it is all about being part of a family,” she said.
“I do not do it for the sake of praise I just do it because that it what you do for others.
“Over the years I have built real connections through making life long friends and seeing many students grow throughout their personal school journey.”
Ms Coogan said working within the school had changed her life and she was grateful for the experience, she will now focus on University Studies to become a school teacher.
Flowers, cards of thanks and a special Peace Lily were presented to Ms Coogan and Ms Donsky by Mr Wann, P&C Secretary Kylie Reynolds, students and their parents and the staff.
