New principal appointed for secondary school in Claremorris
The new principal will step into her role effective from the commencement of the 2026/2027 school year.
Mrs Aisling Mc Alpine is set to take on a new role as principal of Mount St Michael Secondary School, Claremorris, effective from the commencement of the 2026/2027 school year.
Originally from Athenry, Co Galway, and now living in Ballyheane, Co Mayo, Mrs Mc Alpine has spent twelve years in senior leadership across three schools.
She served as Principal of Presentation College, Headford, from 2018 to 2021, where she worked closely with her Board, staff, and parent community to grow enrolment from 720 to 820 and to deliver a capital building project from the Department of Education.
For the past five years, she has served as Deputy Principal at St Joseph’s Secondary School, Castlebar.
Mrs Mc Alpine serves on the National Executive of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, having previously served three years as Chair of Region 2. She is also one of five architects of the Cothú programme, an ethos formation initiative developed by CEIST and now in its second year across over fifty schools.
She began her teaching career at Mount Sackville Secondary School in Dublin before returning to the west of Ireland. She is currently completing a Doctorate in Education at the University of Glasgow.
Speaking on her appointment, Mrs Mc Alpine expressed how fortunate she felt to have been given this opportunity.
“Mount St Michael is a school with a proud Mercy tradition, wonderful staff, and students who achieve remarkable things.
“I look forward to working alongside Deputy Principal Ms Anne Marie Concagh, the Board, the staff, the parents, and CEIST to build on the strong foundations that are already in place, “ she said.
She further acknowledged the staff, student, and parent community at St Joseph’s Castlebar, stating that she left with great gratitude.
Michael Brett, Chairperson of the Board of Management too expressed his delight at welcoming Mrs Mc Alpine to Mount St. Michael.
“She brings a depth of experience, a genuine commitment to Catholic education, and a warmth that we believe will serve this school community well. We look forward to working with her,” he said.