Friday, May 22, 2020 was a momentous day for Nelson Mandela Elementary. It marked the final day fourth term, of school for the fifth graders, and working day as principal for Dr. Susan Toohey. To celebrate, the Mandela Team planned a special parade in Miller Park. Team members from the elementary school and early learning center distanced themselves out in the park, and families were able to drive by, say hello to everyone, and give thanks to Dr. Toohey.
Dr. Toohey was instrumental in the creation of Nelson Mandela Elementary and has remained a constant leader since the school first opened in2015. Now, five years later, some of those scholars belong to the first fifth grade class, and they are ready to leave Mandela. Their graduation was originally scheduled for May 22, 2020-the same day as the end of the term. Instead, the parade was part one of the celebration. Part two, the graduation ceremony, has been rescheduled for July.
At the conclusion of the parade, the Mandela Team gathered (with proper social distancing) to present Dr. Toohey with a special plaque, dedicating the school’s media center in her name. Dr. Toohey’s passion for education and learning will live on in the name of the library, now called the Susan Toohey Media Center.
Dr. Toohey will remain Head of School but work primarily offsite at the Lozier offices. Current assistant principal, Genevieve Core, will take her place as principal, and recent hire from Jesuit Academy, Joe Murray, will step into the role of assistant principal. They will begin their responsibilities as the new leadership team for the school’s 5th term, beginning June 8, 2020.