Laerskool Ivypark bids farewell to longtime principal

POLOKWANE – Willem Opperman (58) has officially bid farewell as the former principal of Laerskool Ivy Park after two decades of dedicated service.

His teaching career, supported by his wife Nita, began in 1990 at Laerskool Wierdapark in Centurion, where he taught mathematics and science to Gr 4 learners.

From 1993 to 2005, he continued his passion at Chris Hofmeyr Primary School, teaching Gr 6 and 7 learners.

In 2006, Opperman joined Laerskool Ivy Park, where he not only taught but also took on leadership responsibilities. He served as the departmental head, later becoming deputy principal in 2017, and in 2018, he was officially appointed as the school’s principal.

Reflecting on his journey, Opperman shared that his passion for education was inspired by his former principal, who took him on fishing trips where they discussed school life. His love for teaching and mentoring was further strengthened by his experiences with learners at a wrestling club in Polokwane.

Opperman says he will cherish the smiles of learners passing his office each morning.

“I will also remember the dedicated staff and teachers who would always volunteer to work the extra hours at school, even when it was not necessary. I’m most grateful for all their dedication and team work,” Opperman said.

He expressed gratitude to parents for their support and involvement, speaking of the importance of parental encouragement.

“To the parents; always be grateful for what our staff do in the school like you always have, and keep on supporting your children. Thank you for playing a big role in our school and your children’s lives. They also get inspired when they see their parents get involved and support them in everything they do at school, be it sports or academics.”

His academic journey includes a higher education diploma, a diploma in education with cum laude from OKSA, a BA degree from Unisa and a B.Ed honours degree with cum laude from the University of Pretoria. His advice to the next principal is to remain adaptable, be firm yet kind, and continue steering the school towards excellence.

The staff and teachers of Laerskool Ivypark expressed their appreciation, highlighting his wisdom, compassion, and leadership that shaped countless learners and teachers. They shared a heartfelt message, saying that his legacy will continue to inspire and his impact will be felt for years to come.

Opperman also extended his thanks to all stakeholders and Review for their support over the years, saying he will miss everyone at the school.

His dedication to education and unwavering commitment to excellence have left a lasting mark on Laerskool Ivypark, ensuring his influence will be remembered for generations.

One of the teachers at the school, Evelyn Buys, who worked with him for the past 20 years, said Opperman is a very humble man, and always wanted the best for everyone who worked with him.

“Whenever he saw potential in you, he will give you a chance to do what you can, and he always made us feel like we belong, even when we came with problems to him, big or small.”

For now, Opperman will just enjoy time at home with his wife.

Tributes from the parenting community:

Nancy Mamabolo: We want to thank you for being an exceptional leader and teacher. Your dedication, guidance and support have made a profound impact on our child’s educational journey.

Caroline Thema: Farewell to you, Sir. May the Lord continue to bless you more and more. We will surely miss you, and we wish you all the best.

Junior Maluleke: It is sad to see our principal go, but he ran his race steering Laerskool Ivy Park’s ship towards the right direction. Farewell, Mr Opperman, go and enjoy your pension days. You will be missed by all of us. May the good Lord grant you healthy life. Thank you for all those years of dedication, good bye, Sir.

Mmabatho Mokoena: Farewell, principal. Our kids will miss you, we as parents will also miss you. You were, and will remain a very kind and loving man. Enjoy your rest as a pensioner. God bless you.

Mahlatse Matsaung: Farewell to you, Principal Opperman. May God continue to bless you and your kind heart. We thank you for all the hard work, dedication and for mostly loving our children as your own.