Redmond, who has been a teacher for 38 years and principal of the school for 22 years, said wanting to make a difference and providing quality education for children has been the key to her journey.
Speaking at a farewell mass for Redmond, chair of board of governors, Richard Hayward, said that working with Redmond has been an amazing experience and wished her well for her retirement. “May you be blessed in your retirement. For all that you’ve done for others, it’s payback time or karma. May there be much delicious Irish stew and your legendary homemade raisin muffins eaten at your table.”
Redmond said that one of the proudest moments of her time as the principal of Maryvale was when the newly-built facilities were named after her.
When asked what some of the challenges she has experienced over the years were, Redmond said, “Trying to respond to the needs of the underprivileged kids and raising funds to help them.”
Redmond also added that the small physical dimensions of the primary school and having pupils crossing over Louis Botha Avenue to go to the High School for facilities had been major problems.
The 66-year old thanked the staff members for their support throughout her tenure as the principal. “The support of the staff has been incredible. I would like to thank Ms Kirsten Smith, who is my deputy and who will be taking over as the new principal, for the support she has given me, and the senior management team,” said Redmond.
Redmond said the main factor in the success of the school had been the religious education throughout the school guided by religious education co-ordinator and teacher, Evelyn Patrick, who has been an inspiration to the rest of the school.
