A multi-color paper chain hangs from the ceiling. Math teacher Beth MacDuff and Special Services teacher Debbie LeComte tear one off each day, counting down to the last day of school-and the first day of retirement.

In a game of chance, 25 years ago LeComte and MacDuff’s bosses decided to try co-teaching and threw them in the same classroom. Sharing teaching as a part-time job, similar teaching styles and status as new mothers, the friendship fell into place.

“I think we’re always together. Everyone assumes we’re going out at the same time,” LeComte said.

The two do more than just teach. They have found plenty of fun outside of school.

“We have our morning routine,” MacDuff said. “We get here pretty early and start walking at seven o’clock. We walk and we walk, and we talk and talk. It’s very good exercise, but also therapeutic for both of us to let it all out every day.”

Walking isn’t the only thing they do, both LeComte and MacDuff have vacationed together with family taking trips to Universal and the Gulf Shores. They plan to spend more time together after retirement when their days are more open.

“Our families know each other now, so we have watched each other’s kids grow up in person, as opposed to showing pictures. Now it’s nice since the kids are older, we can go on vacation with just us,” LeComte said.

LeComte and MacDuff are practically right and left hand and even work extra duties together. After co-teaching, vacations, morning walks and book talks, retirement will be done together too.

“It’s great to have colleagues you can lean on,” MacDuff said.

“We’re like one,” LeComte said.