Music Teacher Gets The Best Surprise Of Her Life From All Her Old Students As She Retires After 34 Years

Dec 18, 2018 by apost team

Did you ever have a teacher who really made a difference in your life? If you're lucky enough to be one of the many who have had an unforgettable teacher you've probably thought you wish there was a way you could let him or her know how much they’re appreciated. Former and current students at Abington Heights Middle School in Pennsylvania came up with a great surprise for the orchestra teacher they all held dear.

After 34 years at the school, Denise Searfoss announced she was retiring. The occasion on this evening was a concert by the eighth-grade orchestra led by the orchestra teacher who had taught so many before them. It was an exceptional evening. At the conclusion of a display of the beautiful music she had trained the young musicians to play with advanced skill, Denise Searfoss was brought to a seat at the front of the auditorium.

She was treated with many cards and gifts from her students. Three of them had made a video tribute, and all of these kind gestures deeply touched her. Students, parents and school staff shared in the emotion of one of Mrs. Searfoss' final concerts as an active teacher. What a tremendous and moving tribute they had given her.

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Probably thinking it was time for everyone to say their goodbyes and head home, the doors in the rear of the auditorium were opened and Denise could see the light that came from the school cafeteria. Then, standing there, was a man dressed in a tuxedo. She immediately recognized him as one of her former students. His name was Patrick Urban and he himself had become a music teacher in Philadelphia. He escorted the stunned Searfoss and asked all in the audience to follow them to the cafeteria.

Then came the biggest surprise of all. Assembled before her was a full orchestra made up of high school and older musicians. Amazingly, each and with had been her student and now they had come together, sometimes practicing their parts only by themselves and in different cities and even states. Now Patrick raised the baton and they played in unison for a teary-eyed Denise Searfoss.

What do you think was the hardest part of this surprise to pull off? Maybe it was just the fact that no one gave away any hint of what was to follow the eighth-grade orchestra's performance or probably the gathering and preparation of a whole band in the school's cafeteria. Whatever it might have been, we think it was an incredible way to "pay back" the great teacher they had. Tell us your thoughts and send this beautiful story of love and respect for a great teacher to all your friends, family members, and beloved teachers!