The Marion Patriot Pride Band program is pleased to announce the addition of two new staff members who will join the program for the 2026-27 school year.
Emily Norris joins Marion after working with marching band programs across west Tennessee and northern Mississippi, most recently at Lake Cormorant High School. Destiny Riddle brings a diverse background in music education, with experience in band programs throughout Arkansas and Oklahoma.
“We are excited to welcome Ms. Norris and Ms. Riddle to our band program,” said Marion Director of Bands Kristen Shepherd. “Both bring a tremendous passion for music education along with valuable experience in the classroom and performance settings. Their energy, talent, and commitment to students will make an immediate impact on our program. We look forward to the opportunities ahead as they help continue the tradition of excellence within Marion bands.”
Emily Norris
Emily Norris is a recent graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin and an alumna of Munford High School in Tennessee. During high school, she was deeply involved in music -- playing oboe and marimba and singing in the choir -- while also graduating as valedictorian of her class.
At UT Martin, Norris focused on percussion and voice, performing in a variety of ensembles and staying active in as many musical opportunities as possible. She also served in leadership roles and helped coordinate percussion equipment for campus events, gaining valuable experience both on and off the stage.
Norris has worked with marching programs throughout west Tennessee as both a percussion instructor and sound technician. Most recently, she served as assistant band director and percussion director for the Lake Cormorant band program, where she supported student development and contributed to a positive and collaborative ensemble environment. She looks forward to bringing her experience and dedication to the Marion band program and to becoming an active member of the school community.
In her free time, Norris enjoys reading, crocheting, spending time with her family, and cuddling her cat, Frieren.
Destiny Riddle
Destiny Riddle is a dedicated performer and music educator with a passion for fostering musical growth and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts. She is a flutist from a small town in Oklahoma who earned her bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.
Riddle brings experience working with students of diverse backgrounds and skill levels across Oklahoma and Arkansas. She has assisted with back-to-back OBA state championships for marching band and has served as a substitute flute/piccolo player for the Northwest Arkansas Symphony and its woodwind chamber ensemble.
When she is not on the podium, Destiny enjoys spending time with her family, visiting antique shops, and caring for her dachshund, Millie.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to work with such an amazing program,” Riddle said. “I cannot wait to connect with students, staff, and the community. I am honored to become part of the Marion community, help this program grow to even greater success, and look forward to the upcoming year!"
The Marion School District is an innovative and growing district that ensures an equitable, engaging learning community where every student is empowered to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. With more than 150 years of experience serving families in Crittenden County, the district offers a high school, a junior high, a seventh grade academy, and three award-winning magnet schools. For enrollment information, including information on school choice, visit https://www.msd3.org/ or call 870-739-5100.