The unsung workaholics that keep the wheels turning at our pressure-cooker schools seldom get the acknowledgement they deserve. Ensuring that the staff and learners showed their appreciation for their leader, Hoërskool Die Burger put on a red-carpet display on Friday, 31 January.
Celebrating his 62nd birthday was Die Burger’s longstanding principal, Banie Lotter. The entire student body and staff gathered in the front courtyard of the school to give Banie a heroes parade. A lime green custom Volkswagen Beetle served as a chariot for the man of the hour as Grade 8s carried balloons, which took ceremonial flight when released in the morning breeze.
Banie received a birthday card from the newly elected Representative Council of Learners (RCL) leader Nthuthuko Zuma on behalf of the learners. He was then presented with a two-tone mouse cake adorned with celebratory sparklers, courtesy of teachers Estelle Nel and Yolandi Calitz.
Overwhelmed with joy and appreciation, Banie thanked everyone involved, saying, “You have all made this a very special moment. I am very proud to be associated with this school and its amazing staff and learners.”
Learners were also rewarded with a casual-clothes day as part of the celebrations, with the tone of respect and camaraderie something the school will hope to carry throughout 2020.
