Retirement party held for popular music teacher

HADLEY, Mass. (WWLP) - Edward Forman dedicated thirty-four years to teaching students how to love music.

It was a retirement party never to forget, students, alumni, staff, family and friends lined the street to honor music teacher Edward Forman as he marched down the street for one last parade.

“I'm overwhelmed.” said Forman.

Forman spent thirty-four years in Hadley's school district, teaching at Hadley's elementary school and Hopkins Academy.

“I have always said what's unique about my job is that I start them in third grade and then I see them until they graduate. It doesn't get better than that. I have a life time of memories,” Forman continued.

Beloved by his students, he leaves behind a legacy of musicians who told 22news they appreciate all that he taught them.

“He's inspired me to play music and he's helped me find out who I am, a musician,” said Paul Kosakowski.

Emily Eajan said, “He's taught me everything I know about what he's done at Hopkins Academy and I feel like someday I want to be a music teacher.”

Outside of work, he continues to pursue his love of music with the " Eddie Forman Orchestra" a polka band he founded in 1986.

“I think he's one of those people who are inspirational to others. He teaches his students lessons in school beyond what he teaches in music, said colleague Jack Hoorigan.

After playing thirty-three concerts and winning over a dozen awards for the Hopkins bands, it is now time to end this chapter and begin a new one.

As Mr. Forman begins the next chapter of his life, alumni told 22news the person filling his position will have large shoes to fill.

Kevin Serio said, “He has a lot to do and he's got to work really hard at it because it’s not an average position that he has to fill. He's got a lot of work to do.”

David Skelly will be Forman's replacement for the new school year.