The foyer at Pope John Paul II School was alive with dancing and music as students and trustees honoured Phyllis Eikre on January 15th, at her final Board Meeting as Director of Education.
The Board of Trustees presented Eikre with a Papal Blessing acknowledging her dedication, leadership and commitment to Catholic education. Following the presentation, Grade 6 students from PJP, along with former Superintendent Mary Cunningham in the lead and a handful of staff and guests, surprised Eikre with a lively flash mob dance performance set to the song Go Make a Difference by Steve Angrisano and Tom Tomaszek.
"It is so amazing to realize that the Pope actually recognizes the years that I spent in Catholic education," said Eikre. "I loved the performance by the students and staff. I had no idea what everyone had planned for me today and it was such a great surprise."
Following the presentation, the Regular Board Meeting continued at Pope John Paul II School.
Phyllis Eikre is Kenora Catholic's fourth director of education and has held the position, for the past 11 years. She is set to retire on January 31, 2019 after a 34-year career in Catholic education at the Kenora Catholic District School Board. Incoming Director of Education, Derek Haime, is set to begin on February 1, 2019.