A POPULAR TEACHER.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19465, 28 April 1925, Page 8

A POPULAR TEACHER.

MISS C. E. CHALMER HONOURED. FUNCTION AT ST. HILDA. It is a well-known axiom that the teaching profession carries on a noble work in the development of the character of the young, and it is largely responsible for the training of the nation. On occasions when teachers retire after lengthy and faithful service the parents, staff, and children combine to show some recognition of their appreciation of the devotion and skill which is employed in fitting the child for its life struggle in the world in later years. Such an occasion which was in honour of Miss C. E. Chalmer, who has been "infant head mistress at the Musselburgh School since its establishment, and who recently retired, attracted a large attendance in the Coronation Hall, St. Hilda, last night. Mr D. C. Cameron, jun. (chairman of the School Committee) presided, and associated with him were Mr T. K. Sidey, M.P., Mr' j. Wallace (chairman of the Education Board), the Musselburgh School Committee, ex-teachers, ex-pupils, and the staff. In his opening remarks Mr Cameron said that they had gathered to do honour to miss Chalmer, who had served the school faithfully and well during the past 20 years. It seemed incredible that that space of had elapsed, since the school ■staff comprised the late head master and Miss Chalmer, who then taught 50 to 60 children. Miss Chalmer was the last link of the original staff. Some of those present would remember that there had been strong opposition to the establishment of a school at Musselburgh on the ground that there were enough schools on “the Flat.” To-day the school had reached its limit of 650, and no fewer than 71 new pupils had enrolled at he commencement of .school yesterday. It had been decided to associate the family of the first head master (the late Mr White) with the present function, and it was only right that they should do so. Mr Cameron then read a letter from Mr E. W. White, of Christchurch. Mrs White was an ex-teacher of the Musselburgh School. Mr White’s letter read, inter alia, as follows“ Would you kindly convey to all interested in the life of your school the kindliest feelings from my mother and the members of the White family, and say that we gladly join with all who are carrying on the traditions and activities of your school in paying tribute to the great personality and work of Miss Chalmer. It is well known to you all that at the beginning of your school it was the great privilege of my late father to be associated with the honoured guest this evening, for Miss Chalmer has been indeed a tower of strength during ail her days of labour in the school. The value and significance of the work of a great school teacher cannot be estimated in terms of commerce, but as you all know must be estimated in terms of character. Great teachers always will be remembered, because their duty is lo make and build character. May we join with you in bidding farewell to Miss Chalmer, whose career has indeed been one of great benefit and blessing to your school, and would you extend to her the very heartiest wishes for health and happiness in her well-earned retirement? Mrs White and myself are gratified to see the formation of the ex-Pupils’ Club, which is one of the finest m»nifestati<lhs of healthy and happy school life. Please congratulate the first president (Mr J. E. Deakcr) and all who are associated with him upon its formation. May the re-unions he full of enjoyment for all members, and a source of strength and help to your old school.” On behalf of the parents, ex-pupils, and present pupils, Mr Cameron later handed Miss Chalmer a gold wristlet watch and a purse of (Sovereigns, and Mr J. B. Grant (head master) presented Miss Chalmer with a cabin trunk from the staff. Messrs W. Jacobsen (ex-chairman of the committee), J. Wallace, J. Robertson, T. K. Sidey, M.P., J. B. Deaker (president of the Past Pupils’ Club) also spoke of Miss Chalmer’s fftility and personality ._

MibS Chalmer suitably replied. Early in the evening- little Miss R. Talboys, a grand-daughter of the late Mr W. J. Gore, who was a member of the first committee which urged the establishment of the school, presented a bouquet to the guest of the evening.

During the evening items were rendered as follow: —Songs—Misses A. Cameron and E. Busa, Mr J. Allan and Master L. Froude; pianoforte solo, Miss A. Wilson; pianoforte duet, Messrs G. Stoucham and E. Ewart; dance, Miss L. MacDonald; saxophone solo, Mr G. Lister. The accompanist was Miss I. Pierce. The function commenced with the National Anthem and concluded witii “Auld Lang Syne.”