History of our School

Prior to the introduction of National Education in Ireland, Hedge Schools supplied Education in this area of Inishowen. It is stated in the 1826 Report of the Commissioners of Irish Education that Michael McColgan teaches "in mid walls thatched in Collin." (Collin, part of catchment area of this school). Michael McColgan was a relative of the famous Fr. John McColgan who became Bishop of Derry in 1752.

Glassalts N.S. built in 1837 was one of the first National Schools in the Barony of Inishowen. It was a one-room building measuring 30 ft. by 20 ft. situated on land generously provided by the McMonagle family. It was a two-teacher school with 108 pupils on rolls at the turn of the century. Although there wasn't always full attendance as many as 85 children were often taught in the one room.

This school provided education for the community for 94 years which is a wonderful tribute to the teachers of that time with tremendous support from this rural community. (1)

On May 1927 Fr. McGeown, P.P. Carndonagh contacted The Office of National Education, Dublin stating that the present school was no longer fit for the education of pupils properly as it had been built to accommodate 65 pupils and the number on the rolls now was in excess of 100 (2)

After inspection the Board of Works confirmed that a new school should proceed as a matter of urgency. This last piece of information is in reference to the present building erected in 1931.

It is said that the land on which it is sited was procured from the Doherty family (Coiner) who have had a long and supportive association with the school.