Scholarship Named in Honor of Two Long-Time Music Teachers

In the April 11 issue of the “Clemmons Courier,” you will find a story about a new scholarship being named in honor of two long-time music teachers:

By Larry Stombaugh

Clemmons Courier

One of the most gratifying aspects of being a teacher is knowing that you have had a lasting impact on students long after they have left your classroom. Danny and Becky Green, two career music teachers, have had such an impact on hundreds of their students during their careers that have spanned decades. In recognition of their legendary careers, the married couple from Clemmons will have a new scholarship named after them.

The Rebecca and Danny Green Music Scholarship will be awarded for the first time in May to a West Forsyth senior. It has been funded by John Stewart, a local philanthropist and retired nuclear engineer, who has been involved with music for most of his life. The $1,500 award is not restricted to a student who plans to major in music, but it will be given to a student who has had a successful career as a music student at West. Sandi Scannelli, president and CEO of the Clemmons Community Foundation, will be presenting the inaugural scholarship at the school’s award ceremony on May 22. Danny and Becky have been asked to attend.

Both Danny and Becky have taught for 39 years including the current school year. Both of them also “unretired” after meeting the state requirements to retire several years ago. Becky retired in 2009 and Danny retired in 2013. Their time away from the classroom was short-lived for both of them, and they eagerly returned to their passion of working with young people.

Danny’s music career began when he played for the U.S. Army band. “My lottery number for the draft was 10,” he said, “but I did have the opportunity while serving during the Vietnam War to play in the Army band.”

His teaching career after serving in the military career has included teaching in Virginia and four counties in North Carolina. He has taught for most of his career in five high schools and six middle schools in Forsyth County. He currently teaches at Wiley Middle School. He has taught both band and orchestra from third-graders to college students.

Becky’s first-year involved the challenge of teaching at five different schools in Forsyth County. She has taught at 15 different schools in the county during her career, and like her husband, she has taught students at many different age ranges. She has taught in elementary, middle and high schools in the county, and she is currently teaching at West Forsyth and at Mount Tabor High School. She has taught orchestra, chorus and general music.

To read the rest of the story, go to Clemmons Courier