PRESENTATION.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1804, 21 March 1918, Page 3

PRESENTATION.

At the local State school yesterday afternoon, in the presence of the scholars and parents, Mr P. G. Jackson, head teacher, was made the recipient of a presentation from the scholars, staff and Committee. The presentation was made by Mr Hornblow, Chairman of Committee, who referred to Mr Jackson’s transfer to the Queen’s Park School (Wanganui), after a periocSof nine years in charge of the_Foxton State school. They regretted his departure, and desired Mr Jackson to carry away with him a token of their esteem. He referred to Mr Jackson’s whole-hearted interest in the school’s welfare, not-only from the scholastic point of view, but also from the point of view of environment. Many remembered the unlovely appearance of the school grounds at the time of Mt- Jockson’s arrival —the unsightly fences, uneven and barren grounds. By systematic effort and hearty co-op-eration, a wonderful transformation had been brought about. To-day the well-kept gardens and beautiful flowering plants and shrubs were the envy of other schools in the district. Mr Jackson had been keenly enthusiastic "in all these matters, and with the co-operation of the Committee, parents and'pupils, had made the environment of the Poxton school second to none under the Board’s jurisdiction. The improved conditions could not but have ft beneficial effect upon the scholars* By precept and example Mr Jackson had endeavoured to instil into the scholars those qualities which make for good citizenship and the conduct of the scholars outside the school reflected credit upon the school training.. The work of the school had compared favourably with the highest standard set by the Inspectors. The good influence of the school had made its mark upon present and past scholars. Parents and scholars wished Mr every success in his now sphere of labours, and, the work he had done locally would remain as a testimony to enthusiasm, Mr Hornblow then referred in eulogistic terms to Mr Jackson’s successor, Mr Furrie— a local boy, who, by industry, had climbed to the top of his profession. Although they all regretted Mr Jackson’s departure, they were pleased to know that in Mr Furrie they were to have such a capable successor. Mr Jackson, who was greeted by a spontaneous outburst of applause, referred to the esprit de corps which had been manifested by all connected with the school. He paid a tribute to Mr Furrie, whom he knew personally. During his nine years connection with the school he had not been worried by complaints from parents, which, he thought, was a good testimony to the staff. He had made many strong attachments and friendships, and would always bo interested in the school. His associations with the school had been,pleasant throughout, and he desired to place on record the hearty co-operation of parents, staff, and committee in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the school. He thanked them for the handsome gift—a set of stainless knives —and he could assure them that the knives would not sever the cement of friendship and goodwill' which had been formed. Cheers were then given for the head teacher. A presentation was to be made to Mr Gabites, but owing to the indefinitencss of his departure, this -was held over. Mr Hornblow' then presented the following prizes w’on in the school tennis tournament:— Boys.—Kere Hirini I, Reginald Lawton 2, Wra. Ross 3. Girls.-—lvy Lacy 1, 'Nathalie' Spring 2, Hilda Davis %