Coda: Marchand celebrated for 44 years in music education

The cafeteria at Walnut Creek Elementary was full Thursday afternoon, May 14, as it always is when longtime music teacher Becky Marchand stages a musical performance by one of her classes. But this time, the spotlight was on her — not her students.

Marchand will retire this week, bringing a close to a remarkable 44 years in music education; 42 of those years were spent teaching in the Azle Independent School District, and 39 were at Walnut Creek Elementary.

Family, friends and coworkers — including several who have either moved to other locations or retired to greener pastures — came to bid Marchand adieu while enjoying a veritable feast of finger foods and cake.