A special evening of celebration, reflection and pride took place in Coláiste Eoin Hacketstown on Thursday 21st May 2026 as the school community gathered to celebrate the Graduation of the Class of 2026.
Students, parents and staff came together to mark the end of an important chapter in the lives of this year’s Leaving Certificate students. The ceremony celebrated not only academic achievement, but also the friendships, resilience, growth and memories that shaped the students throughout their years in Coláiste Eoin.
Congratulations to Ellie Quigley and Luke Kelly, recipients of the Spirit of the Year Award, and to Cody Bowes and Emer O’Toole, who were named Students of the Year in recognition of their outstanding contribution to school life.
One of the most moving moments of the evening came when Principal Mr Alan Costello summed up each graduate in just three words. A slideshow presentation also brought back many special memories from the students’ journey through Coláiste Eoin.
Music and singing throughout the ceremony were led by Music Teacher Ms Leeann Cummins, with a particularly moving instrumental performance by 6th year student Lillian Swift. The choir performances by both the 6th year boys and girls added greatly to the warm and reflective atmosphere of the evening.
Beautiful artwork created by students was displayed throughout the venue under the guidance of Ms Sarah Power and 6th year student Thauara de Lima, adding a personal and creative touch to the celebration.
Each student was also presented with a thoughtful graduation care bag containing symbolic items to support them on the next stage of their journey. The feather reminded students that difficult times will not last forever, the coin symbolised luck and self worth, the paper clip represented staying connected to people who care, the bee symbolised hard work and resilience, the plaster reminded students that healing takes time and it is okay to ask for help, while the key and keyring represented new opportunities, lasting memories and the journey ahead.
Special thanks were extended to class teachers Ms Nessa O’Meara and Ms Noelle King for their support, care and dedication to the graduating students throughout their senior cycle journey.
Mr Costello also thanked the parents and guardians for their continued support throughout the students’ years in Coláiste Eoin. He acknowledged the dedication and hard work of staff and in particular Mr Kelly 6th year year head he also thanked the wider school community for the care, encouragement and opportunities provided to the graduating class over the years.
Throughout the evening, the school motto of “Small School with a Big Heart” echoed strongly in the warmth, care and sense of community that filled the celebration.
The staff of Coláiste Eoin would like to wish the Graduation Class of 2026 every success and happiness in the future.