FOXTON STATE SCHOOL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1811, 9 April 1918, Page 3

FOXTON STATE SCHOOL.

Upon the school assembling yesterday morning, the Chairman of the local Committee introduced the new head teacher, Mr L. J. Furrie, to teachers and scholars. The Chairman said it afforded him great pleasure in introducing their new' head teacher, because he avus a “local boy” who had received his primary education in Foxton, and it Avas in Foxton that he entered the teaching profession. By industry and merit Mr Furrie had won his way to the top-most rung of the teaching profession under the Wan? ganui Board, and Foxton Avas most fortunate in obtaining the services of such a capable head to guide the studies and mould the character of the scholars. It had been said that Foxton children Avere not up to the average standard of intelligence, but in the opinion of the Chief Justice, Sir Robert Stout, himself an ex-schoolmaster, Avho had visited and observed the school at Avork, the speaker had been told that the Foxton children were ns intelligent and bright as any the Chief Justice had come in contact with. It remained for each of them to do their best, and with such an, excellent staff there Avas no reason why Poxton should not merit and hold the reputation of being the best primary school in the district. ■ The career of their head teacher Avas a fine example to each of them. The Chairman Aveleomed the head teacher to. the school on behalf of the Committee, parents, and little ones, and Avished him every success. Mr Furrie, Avho was accorded a hearty round of applause, briefly referred to old associations of school life in Foxton. He realised the great responsibility Avhich rested upon him, and he desired them to know that they also had responsibilities. He spoke of loyalty, and said he desired each boy and girl to be loyal to their school, because if they Avere not loyal to their school they would not be loyal to their country. He did not Avant any dodgers—and unfortunately there were dodgers in every school —children aa t lio dodged school and studies. He wanted each one to do their very best, in order that everything Avould run smoothly. Another point Avas punctuality and regularity in attendance. In this connection he Avas glad to know that there was an honours shield, for which ho hoped there Avould be keen competition. If each one did their best according to their mental ability, he felt sure they Avould get on very well together.