An official farewell got underway last Friday to mark the retirement of two inspirational teachers with over 81 years of service between them.

DOUBLE RETIREMENT: Marcia Kissane and Siobhain O'Brien enjoyed a joint retirement party at the Dromhall Hotel on Friday evening. From l-r were: Principal Stella Loughnane Marcia Kissane former Principal Eamon Fitzgerald Siobhain O'Brien and past Principal at KCC Fiona O'Brien. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

87 current and former staff members and retirees from Killarney Community College gathered in the Dromhall Hotel to celebrate the retirement of Marcia Kissane and Siobhain O'Brien.

Marcia has taught in the school for 43 years and Siobhain for 38 years.

Speakers on the night included current principal Stella Loughnane and former principals Eamonn Fitzgerald, Pat Favier and Fiona O'Brien. Past colleague Julie Shanahan and current teacher John Keane also spoke.

As well as teaching Geography, Maths and Irish Marcia was fundamental in starting the Leaving Cert Applied programme in Killarney Community College and was the coordinator of LCA from its instigation to her retirement.

Siobhain taught History and Irish and was behind several winning Scór teams in the school. Her skill and love of music was passed on to students and staff alike throughout her years in the college.

Both Marcia and Siobhain had huge interest in the GAA and contributed greatly to school sporting achievements over the years.

The celebrating continued until the early hours with music and dancing and was definitely a night to remember.