Historic day for Mayo school as it becomes co-ed after 160 years

A new era in the social history of Westport began this morning when 60 girls walked through the doors of Rice College. After 160 years the long-established seat of learning became a co-ed school and the excitement levels knew no bounds.

"It's the most natural thing in the world. This is a special day for the whole community," school principal, Michael Rabbette stated as he greeted the new students streaming through the doors. This is a day the community wanted; a day the vast majority of parents wanted. Surveys carried out told us that more than 90 per cent of parents wanted to see a co-ed school in the town and we're absolutely delighted to have a great bunch of boys and girls starting here today."

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The girls are part of a 158-strong first-year intake in Rice College, the biggest number of new arrivals ever in the Westport school. 

"We usually have between ninety and one hundred first-years, but this is a new departure in every sense," Rabbette stated. "We worked very hard to have all the resources in place. It's a very proud day for our staff, our parents and everyone involved in Rice College. The future is bright and very exciting."

Extensive coverage of the historic day will be carried in Tuesday's Mayo News.