Davies Music Teacher Retires: “Leaves a Legacy” Students Say

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 A familiar face at Davies High School is saying goodbye.
 
Deb Wald has taught in the valley for over 20 years and many students say they are sad to see her go.
 
This is one of the last rehearsals for Mrs. Wald, a teacher who has been conducting students in the valley for over 20 years.
 
“This is my proper time,” said Wald.
 
Teaching is a passion for Wald, who will soon be retiring.

The concert is free for the public.

She was one of the first teachers at Davies High School.
 
“It’s kind of sad because it’s like, it’s kind of tradition to have Wald be here,” said Davies Senior Joe Gartner.
 
It’s a retirement she’s been planning, but she says it’s still tough.
 
“I’ll miss my colleagues. I’ll miss my students but students leave, students graduate,” said Wald.
 
She used to teach music along with her husband Tom Wald who taught in the district for 10 years.

He passed away three years ago.

They had a six year plan to retire together.
 
“He was retired, and I was just trying to catch up and go there with him but now there’s a new plan and it’s, we’ll figure out what it is each day,” said Wald.
 
“She’s really truly leaving a great legacy. A great mark on Davies High School so the next teacher has some big shoes to fill,” said Davies Senior Natalie Shaw.
 
Mrs. Wald not only helped transform students’ lives but she helped make the Davies High School music program what it is today.
 
“She’s an amazing teacher, not only is she amazing with the students. She’s built this program from the ground up,” said Orchestra Teacher Michal Lang.
 
As Wald swings her arms, she knows she’s going to miss one big part of the job.
 
“Teach some life lessons through music, ’cause that’s what we do. We teach life lessons through music,” said Wald.
 
Mrs. Wald’s last concert will take place Thursday at 7:30 at Davies High School.

She says she’s excited to conduct the song “Unchained Melody.”