Crana College teacher Anne McElhinney retires after more than 30 years
As she begins retirement, long-serving guidance counsellor says the Buncrana school was a special place to work
After more than three decades at Crana College, Anne McElhinney has retired from teaching.
Anne joined the Buncrana school in 1993 and, over the years, taught a variety of subjects before moving into career guidance, a role she held from 2008 until her retirement.
In a tribute, the school said: “Throughout her time in Crana College, Anne supported countless students, particularly through her role as Guidance Counsellor. Anne is known by current and past students, and their parents, for her genuine concern for student wellbeing and for the kindness and compassion she demonstrated every day.
“We wish Anne every happiness and joy in her retirement.”
Trained in mathematics and economics, Anne began her teaching career in England, where she taught maths for two years. She then spent a year teaching business and economics at Scoil Mhuire in Buncrana before joining the staff at Crana College.
During her 33 years at the school, she worked under four principals - Danny O'Brien, Mary McLaughlin, Liam Galbraith and Kevin Cooley.
As well as teaching maths and business subjects, Anne said she often found herself taking on whatever classes were needed: “Anything Danny O'Brien could find,” she laughed.
A new direction came in 1998 when she was encouraged to train in career guidance. “An opportunity came up in Career Guidance, and Danny asked me if I’d like to train in careers so I did. That was 1998, and I've been in Career Guidance ever since.”
She also served as Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) co-ordinator for ten years, and joined Crana College’s management team in 2018 as an assistant principal.
Looking back on her time at Crana College, Anne said the people made the job an absolute pleasure.
“Honestly, it was such a privilege to teach in that school. I know that sounds a wee bit corny, but it’s true. We had the best staff, and the best students and I wish them all the every success and happiness in the years ahead.
“It’s an environment where students and staff can all thrive and achieve their best. It’s a special place to work, and I've loved every minute of it.
“I could stay there forever, but there comes a time when you have to choose to go.”
As for retirement, Anne said she has ‘no big plans’ but is keeping her options open.
“I’ll see where life takes me...plenty of airports hopefully.”