A POPULAR TEACHER.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1924, Page 7

A POPULAR TEACHER.

FUNCTION AT STRATFORD. FAREWELL TO MISS PAPPS. (From Our Own Reporter.) Stratford, Dee. 18. Tn recognition of .the .snlcndi;! services performed by Miss M. M. Papps, headmistress of the infant department of the Stratford primary school, a gathering was held in her honour at the jParish Hall to-night, when a presentation was made to her on behalf of parents and townspeople. Miss Papps has been associated with the Stratford School for the past twelve years, and is leaving to assume the position of headmistress of the Courtenay Street Infant Schcol. New Plymouth. To-night’s function, which was. largelv attended, was presided over by Mr. W. Pinhey, eha’rinan of the School Committee.

In the absence of the Mavor (Mr. J. W. McMillan), who was indispqsed. the Deputy-Mayor (Mr. E. Carryer) made the presentation, which took the form cf an inlaid ivoroid brush, comb and tray, and a travelling rug. Mr. Qarrver referred to Miss Papps’ many sterling qualities and to her good influence on her pupils and all associated with her. Her departure and the consequent loss of her genial personality to Stratford were deeply regretted, but he wished her all success in her new position and congratulated her on the importance of the appointment. The presentation was then made, musical honours being accorded the recipient. Mr. Pinhey also referred to the good work performed by Miss Papps. Mr. S. Tyrer (formerly headmaster of the school) commented on the fine work done by their guest in moulding child life. He felt proud of her work in the infant department during the period of his head mastership. The present headmaster (Mr. L. J. Furrie) also spoke, eulogising Miss' Papps’ untiring energy, her sound judgment, and the bond of sympathy which existed between her and her pupils. She had set a high standard, and her work had inspired not only the children but also the teachers in her department. Miss Papps, in reply, thanked all for the pleasant evening provided her as guest and for the presentation. She would carry away with her many happy memories. Her work, she said, liad been a labour of love, and she thanked the assistant teachers for their will : ng cooperation. She also thanked ; Messrs. Tyrer and Furrie for their remarks, considering that the school was extremely fortunate in having two such headmasters.

During the evening an enjoyable musical programme was provided, to which the following contributed items: Mrs. Stan Robinson, Misses Lunam, Black Maida Ward and Milner,! Messrs. A. H. Amess and J. L. Robins (songs), and Mr. Don Macalister (violiin solo). Mrs. J. H. Thompson played the accompaniments.

The hall was very tastefully decorated for the occasion, this woi'k being carried out under the supervis : on of Mesdames J. Macalister and E. Tichbon (members of the School Copimittee). assisted by the wives of the other members of the committee. Supper was provided at the close of the concert programme. and later an impromptu dance was held.