VEREENIGING. – The Laerskool Handhawer family made up of pupils, parents , School Governing Body (SGB) and staff has said a heartfelt goodbye to their beloved Principal Willie Marais who has departed from the school after being at the helm in 2006.
Marais thanked everyone for making his journey memorable. He called the team working at Handhawer the winning team and urged them to carry on ensuring that the children at the school get quality education as they are the leaders of tomorrow.
Talking about his career in education, Marais said his journey started in 1986 at laerskool jongspan in carletonville.
“From there I moved to ls glenharvie. In 1997 I became principal at Laerskool Voorwaarts in meyerton. From there we moved to ghanzi in Botswana at pioneer academy.
Marais said he joined the winning team at hanhawer in 2006. Marais states that he was able to carry out his duties successfully because he had the support of his wife and two children, who he calls the best family ever.
Marais said he draws his strength from God and as a result gives all glory to him.
“Handhawer is very special and close to my heart and that will stay forever, with the best team of educators, support staff, sgb and parents.
“The students of the school are very special and close to my heart that is why we are educators. We teach them to become well educated and responsible citizens of this beautiful country. Thousands of students went through the doors of this 100 year old school and all of them will tell a story of success and happiness,” he said.
The SGB Chairperson Moorosi Mafa said that Mr Marais has left a mark. He said he is leaving a great legacy behind.
Marais sent his best wishes to the school. “My best wishes for the school and the community, may Hanties always be a beacon of hope and safety and experience the love and protection of our Heavenly father”
Addressing the pupils before the official handover at the the school, Marais urged them to always try to be the best versions of themselves. He urged parents to always practice the 9 minute rule which entails spending three minutes with a child in the morning when they wake up, three minutes in the afternoon and three minutes before they go to bed.
