I graduated from Hardaway HS in Columbus in 1982, and attended the University of Georgia, earning my Bachelor's Degree in Music Education in 1986. I served 4 years as an officer in the US Army Reserves while I was teaching in Hazlehurst and Macon, and then earned both my Master's and Education Specialist degrees at UGA while I was teaching in Danielsville. During my 31 year teaching career, I taught in all parts of the state, in large schools and small, and in rural, urban, and suburban areas. I taught Symphonic Band, Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Music Appreciation, Advanced Chorus, Concert Choir, Beginning Chorus, Beginning Band, General Music, and even high school classes in Study Skills and math. I taught at all levels, from elementary (1 year) to middle school to high school, and even did several years as an adjunct faculty member at Emmanuel College. I retired from full time teaching in 2017, moved here to Dahlonega, and subbed for a year before getting back into the classroom on a part time basis in 2018.
My wife Jackie teaches 2-year-olds at Gainesville United Methodist Church (GFUMC) Preschool. We have been married since 1986. My oldest son, Stephen, lives with his wife Maribel in Toccoa, and she teaches Language Arts at Stephens County HS while Stephen is working on his Master's Degree at Clemson University. Our son Eric lives with us and works at Walmart here in Dahlonega. Our daughter Karyn lives and works in Athens, and our youngest, Miller, is a junior at Kennesaw State University.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do (or did if retired)?
I retired from full-time teaching in 2017 and moved here to Dahlonega. I am currently working part-time at Lumpkin County Middle School, teaching 6th and 7th grade band. My favorite part of my 35+ year career is watching kids grow as students, musicians, and as people.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community and your favorite dishes there?
Jackie and I love Johnny B's, and have enjoyed Grapevines on occasion.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? And if you moved here, where were you from originally?
We have lived in Dahlonega since I retired in 2017. I grew up in Columbus, Ga, attended UGA, and have taught in Hazlehurst, Macon, Danielsville, Fitzgerald, Greenville, Elberton, Camilla, Savannah, and Lithia Springs.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I've always wanted to travel to Alaska to see the frontier.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Amadeus is one of my favorite movies, and one of my current favorite shows would have to be Ted Lasso. A past show? M*A*S*H
Q: What advice would you give to people?
You are in charge of your own emotions. No one can "make" you happy, sad, angry, or any other mood. You will be how you choose to be.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I want to see all 50 states, but it's a long drive to Hawaii!
Q: What is your go to band when you can't decide what to listen to?
The Beatles
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y'all meet for this lunch?
Kelly Ferguson, my best man from my wedding. I have not been able to get in touch with him for many years, and I would love to be able to catch up. We would probably meet at the BBQ place downtown, or one of the other downtown cafes.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love attending church at St. Elizabeth Episcopal Church, and singing in the choir.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Traveling the country, trying to see all 50 states with my wife.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don't know about you?
I write my own college football blog: paulprattleson.blogspot.com
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
The Grand Canyon, but I was very young, so I want to return someday.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is December, my favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, and the best day New Year's Day, when all the best college football bowl games are played.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Stephen R. Donaldson as an author- truly outstanding!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family and my students. I want to the best I can for them.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Bacon and … bacon!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Security, Grilling, Relaxing
