Royal treatment as Anne retires

By Alison Noonan
RETIRING teacher Anne Balas received the royal treatment last week when she hung up her boots after 35 years of teaching.
Staff and students at Devon Meadows Primary School tended to their beloved teacher’s every whim during the ‘Anne Balas memorial week’.
Mrs Balas, of Tooradin, said she was treated like a queen for the week, presented with a crown, a royal throne, relieved of yard duty and various activities held in her honour.
“I was given a different hat to wear each day, a slice of cake was ready for me in the staff room every day and the students bowed to me and had to tell me a joke,” she said.
“It was a very enjoyable week.”
Mrs Balas leaves Devon Meadows after 15 years with the school, packing it all in to travel with her husband.
“I plan to travel and go overseas.
“It is very sad to leave because I have made a lot of friends here but I think it’s time.
“I am looking forward to retirement,” she said.
Teacher Amber Crawford said the memorial week was a show of appreciation for Mrs Balas’ hard work and dedication over the years.
“She is a fantastic teacher and this was just recognition of all the things she’s done for the school,” she said.