By Emily Norman
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Greytown School principal Kevin Mackay has seen through an era of change in Greytown.
And now, after 15 years as the school’s principal, he has confirmed his resignation for the end of the year.
He describes Greytown as a once “sleepy little town that no one knew or heard anything about really”, and says it is a “hugely changed place” from what is was when he first moved there in 1978.
“It was quite different from the town it is today – which is now this vibrant, crafty kind of coffee club community,” he said.
Mr Mackay started as a teacher at Greytown School from 1980 until 1990, and has been principal there for an additional 15 years.
“That’s 26 years, and that’s a long time,” he said.
“There are a number of parents of children who are at the school now, who were in my class back in the day.
“So that’s interesting and that’s what happens when you hang around for a long time.”
In fact, Mr Mackay said as of next month, he will have been going to school for 59 years – “so that’s probably enough”.
In his retirement, Mr Mackay intends to lead a “quieter” life.
“The plan is somewhat fluid at this point in time but it will be a quieter life,” he said.
“Haven’t got a lot of plans, just various ideas. Put it this way, I’m not going to be sitting on the couch.”
In his time as principal, Mr Mackay has introduced a wide range of initiatives to Greytown School, which has helped it develop into a “very strong and stable school”, according to school board chair Alistair Plimmer.
“Kevin has made a tremendous contribution to the school and wider community,” he said.
“While he will be sorely missed, the school is in excellent shape and is an attractive proposition for a new principal.”
Mr Plimmer said the board would begin a nationwide recruitment process immediately.
Principal stands down after 26 years at school
