A LONG-SERVING head teacher has said a tearful goodbye to her Dalmuir school — after an incredible 38 years of dedication to education.

Margaret Kowal, 59, finally parted ways with her beloved Our Lady of Loretto last Thursday after a final assembly.

The special celebration was held in her honour and the children performed a show for their departing head teacher before handing over gifts and messages.

Margaret, a mother-of-one, told the Post: “I was a bit tearful at the end of the show the children put on for me. They performed songs, some rock tracks, presented messages and gifts, and gave their best The final day has been very emotional.” The now retired teacher admitted she was a bag of nerves on her first day in November, 1977 as a fresh-faced 21-year-old teacher.

However, the welcoming nature of Our Lady of Loretto Primary made her feel at ease and she told how till this day it still has that warm and friendly atmosphere she loves so much.

After being promoted into a senior teaching position, Margaret stayed and spent her entire career at the Dalmuir primary.

But when asked to point out some of her fondest moments, she said there were far too many to even choose from.

“Most of my time at school I spent teaching the infants, primary 1-3,” Margaret said. “I think my heart lies with the younger children, that’s where I got most of my experience.

“I’ve probably taught a couple of generations of families now but I have loved it, Dalmuir is a great place to be working in.

“The community here, like the school, has been so friendly and welcoming for both the children and the staff. We just had an exchange teacher over from Canada and she has loved the year she spent here, she felt very welcomed.” Margaret is now going to take some well-earned time out and a holiday.