President Visits Castleknock Community College
By Niamh Ni Mhaoileoin

One could almost smell the excitement in Castleknock Community College on Monday, fourth of October as staff and students carried out last minute preparations for the visit of President Mary McAleese.

During the visit the President commented that both the school and the students were polished to within an inch of their lives. Looking around her point was quite clear. Signs and paintings adorned every available wall, flowers were planted and floors were swept. The president was greeted by smiling students with forcibly straightened ties and shiny shoes as she arrived to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the college.

During her short visit the Uachtarán shook hands with hundreds of students, answered questions, visited the school's meditation room, planted a commemorative tree and attended an inter faith prayer service in the school hall. This service included a hymn, beautifully sung by the school choir and prayers from different world faiths read by fifth and sixth year students.

The highlight of the ceremony undoubtedly was an inspiring address by President McAleese. She began by commending students, staff and parents on the progress that has been made in the school in only ten years. The main message of her speech, however was that the Ireland of today is better than ever. She emphasised how much life in the country has improved over the last thirty or forty years and she assured the students that this wonderful new Ireland was theirs for the taking. Her final statement was "Ireland today is the best it's ever been, enjoy it!"

Shortly before her departure there were presentations made to President McAleese by students. She received a bouquet of flowers and an ornate vase. She was also shown the school's swipe card system and became an honorary student when she was given her very own card with her name, date of birth and picture. But while the back of a student card reads "do not give to any other student "Mrs. McAleese's card accordingly read "Do not give to any other presidents"!
Overall the day was a great success and there were smiles all round. The teachers were satisfied with a job well done and students were delighted that not only did they get to meet the President but they also got a half-day!