Teachers honoured at school reunion after 37 years

Students from Nantes Primary School’s class of 1985 decided to express their gratitude toward their teachers and principal with a special reunion.

Novene Makalane, who helped organised the event, said it was important to her and many of her classmates to give back to their teachers.

Makalane and her friend Sharifa Holworthy made it all happen.

“We all feel they taught us such valuable lessons and we all ended up doing quite well in life,” said Makalane.

“Teachers are heroes and we need to remind them of that.”

Makalane was also pleased with the turnout she saw with 15 of her former teachers showing up along with many former learners as well.

“The teachers were all in tears when they saw us which was very special and heart-warming to see.

“Many of us teared up as well with all the memories we shared as pupils together at the school.”

Makalane will forever be grateful for the crucial life lessons she and her fellow learners were taught at the school.

They also handed out gifts to their teachers.

The former students also sang and gave speeches for their beloved teachers.

“We as a group of former learners thought it would be a good idea to honour our teachers like this,” Makalane said in her speech.

“The education we received at such an early age really prepared us for the rest of our school careers and life as a whole and we are all very grateful.

“When people talk about our area, Eersterust, they only have negative things to say, but the opposite is actually true,” Makalane said.

“Eersterust is actually one of the most progressive areas in our city, and we have produced some incredible people with the help of fantastic teachers.

“Behind every successful man and woman, is a hardworking teacher.

“You guys are truly angels and we can’t thank you enough for what you have done for us.”

The students are especially proud of their former headmaster, Dr Willie Hoods.

“This is such an incredible man,” she said.

“It is an honour to just be in his presence.

“Just to read his CV and everything that he has accomplished will take your breath away.”

Makalane added that the teachers were not only important in preparing children for their school careers, but also many other facets of life including their careers, relationships, marriages and their faith.

Principal Hoods said the day was very special and important to him.

“I never thought I would experience a day where former students from Nantes will honour me like this.

“I know it is something that comes from the heart, and the people who were there during your education think of you every day as well.

“Eersterust is in need of leaders and good people, but it’s good to know that people like you are still active in this community,” he concluded.

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram