DURHAM ROAD FAREWELL

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1930, Page 14

DURHAM ROAD FAREWELL

DEPARTURE OF MISS JAMES.

(Special Correspondent.)

A very pleasant social evening was spent at the residence of Mr. Chas. Goble, Durham Road, on Wednesday evening, when the parents of children attending the Durham school and friends were present. The function, which was arranged in honour of Miss M. E. James, who has occupied the position of teacher for seven years, was of a varied character, and was thoroughly enjoyable. . Mr. J. B. '■ ’’mpson, the only one now left of the original settlers of the upper portion ,of the road, gave an interesting account of the early days and their drawbacks, stating that the earlier settlers were more considerate for one another than the people of the present time. He also reveiwed the history of the school from its inception and showed the nature' of the institution for the upper portion of Norfolk Road, which was slowly but satisfactorily, reaching the stage when families could take up residence. The children from there, by attending the Durham school, would be able' to get a school within 1| miles if provision were made for crossing the Maketawa River. This had. been done in earlier times.

He had seen mjiny teachers, both permanent and relieving, in charge of Durham, and could honestly say that Miss James had proved herself equal to the best. The results achieved by Miss James were a monument to her worth as a teacher. Those present desired to present her with a- memento of their appreciation; He asked Miss James to accept a gold wristlet watch. Mr. F. Gorney endorsed the remarks of Mr. Simpson who, he said, had devoted much time and energy for the betterment.ot the district. He was sorry that Miss James had to move and hoped that good luck-and good health would be her portion. Mr. C. Goble said he felt that the children were suffering a great loss in the removal of Miss James. a teacher had put in seven years service in one district and had helped-children attain their proficiency ticket, besides grounding others toward that end he could but repeat it was a great loss that she could not see the result of her labour. i

Mrs. T. Hayman said Miss. James was a careful, conscientious teacher and deserved the recognition given her. Mr. and Mrs. A. Davidson endorsed the remrrks.

. After Miss James had replied supper was served.