Local teacher wins ASTI award for service to union
A local teacher will receive the ASTI 2023 Honorary Life Membership Award in recognition of her exceptional service to the union at a reception in Dublin tonight (Friday, May 26th).
Former principal of CBS Crumlin, Mary Dowling Maher made a valuable contribution to the ASTI during her teaching career. Mary held many roles in the ASTI including chairperson of ASTI Dublin South West Branch and member of the ASTI Executive. Mary was also a member of the ASTI Education Committee and ASTI Equality Committee. She served as ASTI Vice President before taking on the role of ASTI President in August 1993.
As ASTI President 1993-94, Mary represented teachers at a time when the second-level education landscape was experiencing significant change including the introduction of Transition Year, which the ASTI had lobbied for, and the holding of the National Education Convention, the proceedings of which had a significant impact on the Irish education system. Mary was the voice of the classroom teacher calling for modern school buildings, improved staffing, and greater investment in education. She took a keen interest in equality issues and campaigned to make schools safer places for all.
Honorary Life Membership is the most prestigious award that can be bestowed on an ASTI member. It is given in recognition of singular and exceptional service to the ASTI involving substantial and commendable personal input.
Mary will be presented with her award by the ASTI President and ASTI General Secretary.
Ends
