Ballina school launches fundraiser to improve educational experience for students
Pictured at the launch of the St Dymphna's Special School Bus Fund were, back row, from left: Sharon Gallagher, Jennifer McCormack, Senator Mark Duffy, Cllr John O'Hara (Cathaoirleach Mayo County Council), Minister Dara Calleary TD, Rose Conway Walsh TD, Pat O’Brien, Farragh Reape, Stacey Reape and Sharon Hastings. Front row: Sonny Moyles, Shea McConnell and Ruby Rixon Picture: John O'Grady
St Dymphna’s School in Ballina has launched a to enable it to invest in its own dedicated transport that will improve the educational experience of students.
Deputy School Principal Jennifer McCormack told the that hiring out buses is becoming less viable due to rising costs.
“We want to offer a well-rounded educational experience to our students and these trips play a vital role in expanding our students' integration and their learning beyond the classroom. We can’t organise regular field trips because of the rising cost of day-to-day life,” she said. “To take six children and one wheelchair user to the Bowling Alley in Castlebar would cost everybody €25.”
Ms McCormack said this fundraiser is about equity and giving St Dymphna's students the same opportunities afforded to pupils in other schools.
“The funds raised would go towards a bus that would meet the diverse needs of all our students, with extra seating space and wheelchair lifts and all other modifications needed,” she said. “If we had a bus, our children would be able to go on the smaller trips and the real-life experiences they need but sometimes aren’t able to experience.
“It’s not just about transport, it is about opportunity. We want our students to know they can participate in every aspect of life. It is about equity of freedom, equity of knowledge, equity of engagement in a real and meaningful way.”
The fundraiser, launched recently, has already attracted massive support within the community.
“We have had huge support from local businesses and community members. The outpouring of generosity from local people has been astounding,” said Ms McCormack. “The bus would help every child build a bright future for themselves in this really special town and this amazing community who have been so very good to us and supportive.”
There is an online donation portal available on the website GoFundMe and there will be events taking place in support of the fundraiser in the coming weeks. The Bonniconlon Easter Family Fun Day on Saturday, April 19, is in aid of the St Dymphna’s Special School Bus Fund and will provide an opportunity for a fun, family day out whilst supporting this worthy cause.
The GoFundMe fundraiser can be found
