MR. P. S. WHITCOMBE.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 May 1921, Page 6

MR. P. S. WHITCOMBE.

TARANAKI TEACHERS’ TRIBUTE.

On Saturday afternoon Mr. P. S. Whiteombe, t<he retiring secretary of the Taranaki Education Board, was entertained by the executive of the Educational Institute and the Women Teachers’ Association.

Mr. W. A. Curtis, the president of the institute, occupied the chair, and read expressions of regret from Messrs. Tyrer, Thomas, Mail, and Howarth at their unavoidable absence. He said that the gathering, although it consisted only of the various executives of the institute, represented the whole of the teachers of Taranaki, and had been purposely so arranged, after careful consideration. Mr. Whiteombe was retiring from the secretaryship of the board after 22 years’ faithful service and the teachers could not allow him to retire without showing him in some tangible way how much they had appreciated his kindness and thoughtfulness towards them at all times. The position that Mr. Whiteombe had occupied had not been an easy -one, but only those closely associated with educational affairs could fully appreciate the many difficulties. Now that he was about to leave the board’s service it would perhaps be some pleasure to him to know that he jvas esteemed by all the teachers, and tkat he carried away with him their sincere wishes that the years of his retirement would be blessed with health, happiness, and good luck. On behalf of the teachers Mr. Curtis then presented Mr. Whiteombe with a cheque. Miss T. Pearce, the president of the Women Teachers’ Association, very ably voiced the feelings of that association for the tact, courtesy, and helpfulness shown at all times. Mrs. Martin, the vice-president, also spoke. Mr. McIlroy thanked Mr. Whiteombe for the willing assistance given to him (Mr. Mcllroy) during the fourteen years he had been secretary to the institute. Mr. Skdlton mentioned that Ihe Technical College staff had always found Mr. Whiteombe ready to .help where needed, and on behalf of the college he extend‘■M thanks and good wishes. In replv. Mr. Whiteombe thanked the teaelhers for their farewell token, and said (“bat he would always remember with pleasure his association with the teachers, d>nd although not actively concerned any longer with .educational affairs, he 'woflld certainly not lose int<?The gathering’ concluded with the singing of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”