County Roscommon school closes after 135 years in operation

The closure of Slatta National School for the summer holidays this year was tinged with great sadness as the school closed permanently today (Friday) bringing to an end a tradition of 135 years of education.

A lifetime of learning and laughter in the Kilglass based school will conclude its journey. Slatta parents and the Board of Management have worked hard to raise awareness of all that Slatta school had to offer. Despite this, the number of pupils enrolled in Slatta National School became too small to secure the future of the school.

A series of events have taken place recently in the school to mark its closure. An open evening for past pupils took place on June 13th with a large number of people in attendance. A school mass was held on June 17th with thanks to Fr. Willie.

The last day was marked by a gathering of parents, pupils and staff for presentations and final farewells. Congratulations were expressed to the three sixth class pupils as they progress to secondary school. Best wishes were extended to the remaining five pupils as they will start in their new schools next September.

Many teachers have served Slatta National School over the past 135 years. The Board of Management and parents expressed their appreciation and thanks to all who worked tirelessly down through the years creating a lasting legacy.

In a statement Slatta National School expressed their gratitude to everyone who helped keep the school in operation for 135 years.

“There are so many people who contributed to school life in Slatta every year; permanent staff, Special Education Teachers, and all those who contributed to many other school activities every year. We can’t thank them enough for all they have done and we wish them all the very best for their next chapter."

"As we close the roll book in Saltta N.S, we take great pride in all that has been achieved here and look forward to seeing the many paths our pupils will follow in the years ahead.”