By Kathy Kealey, Assistant Head of School / Director of Junior School
On June 15, 2016, in honour of Grade 1 Teacher Helen Shaughnessy, York House held the “Shaughnessy Olympics”. Even after 37 years of teaching at York House, Helen was adamant that she didn’t want to have a retirement party. If we did plan anything to mark the occasion, we knew that we had to have the students at the centre of the celebration.
The “Shaughnessy Olympics” were born and a fun-filled day of activities ensued. Students enjoyed picnics on the field, fun activities and games, and an afternoon concert by children’s performer Will Stroet.
In her time at York House, Helen always taught Grade 1. She has always delighted in all things that 6-year-olds do and it is safe to say that nobody knows six-year-olds the way that she does. She once told me that the average person laughs 60-70 times per day but young children laugh 70-600 times a day. Now I know the reason why she loved to teach Grade 1!
Committed to our students and generous to her colleagues, Helen will be missed at York House. We thank her for her many contributions and hope that her next chapter will be filled with much fun and laughter!
Watch the video for Ms. Shaughnessy that the Junior School created with Mme Fukamati.