Whorouly Primary School's principal, Pauline McPherson, received a heartwarming send-off from students on Friday, 4 July, with a surprise party quadruple the size she was expecting. Staff arranged for ex-students, ex-teachers, friends and parents of students who went to the school to surprise Pauline on her final day of teaching, after 41 years in Whorouly and 44 years in education overall. "It was quite a surprise, because I was expecting just a special barbeque lunch with the kids I was saying goodbye to," she said. "Instead there was suddenly a crowd of people, with lots of locals, ex-students and parents of kids I taught in the community. "For me it was a very emotional day, as I've been with the school a long time. "It was a very big surprise, totally unexpected but lovely." The celebration ended with the bell ring and Pauline holding her last ever assembly, where the children lined up on the basketball court in their year levels, she greeted them with one last 'good afternoon, children' and all her ex-students lined up behind the current students filling the court. Even though Pauline has finished teaching, her final day at the school is today. Acting principal, Dale Walker, is to take over the reigns from term three, until a replacement principal is found. "I've been clearing a lot of things out of my office, because I've been there a long time," Pauline said over the school holidays. "I haven't decided what I'll do with all my new free time; spend more of it being a nanna and a friend, but aside from that, no plans yet. "I've always advocated greatly for our small school, because to be able to teach in smaller schools is a great opportunity. "You get to know the kids, their families and be part of the community: that's what makes it really special. "I've been very lucky: it's great to have such connection and it's a great positive for our school." Whorouly School Council president Shannon Phillips said Pauline has always fought for the kids from the get-go. "We're very lucky to have her," she said. "She's been an amazing principal and set up such a legacy. "This week, she's still working towards installing a cubby house for our students. "It was great we were able to have a bit of fun with her farewell party. "My three kids decided to dress up as old ladies and even got a walker and gave Pauline some knitting needles." A celebratory dinner is planned in Pauline's honour, to be held on Friday, 25 July from 6pm, at Remel 185 in Whorouly. Anyone who has been involved with Pauline over the years is welcome to join. You need to RSVP by today, 18 July, to Ruth on mobile 0400 622 386. Seats are $45, please reference your name and how many guests will be attending.
