Saturday, December 14, 2024
Granbury ISD is known for its exceptional teachers, but one stands out for his unique combination of talents and dedication. Meet Ryan Payne — last year’s Granbury ISD Teacher of the Year and an emerging country music artist with a heartfelt new EP that’s beginning to catch the attention of listeners and radio stations alike. His story is as inspiring as it is multifaceted, blending his love for education with his passion for music.
A JOURNEY ROOTED IN SERVICE AND DEDICATION
Payne has called Granbury home for the past nine years, moving here with his wife Angie and their two sons, Ryder and Rhett. His path to teaching wasn’t linear, but it was clearly guided by a deep commitment to making a difference in young people’s lives. A graduate of Corsicana High School (class of 2001), Payne went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice, with a minor in political science, from Sam Houston State University.
Before joining Granbury ISD in 2022 as a teacher in the career and technical education department, Payne built an impressive resume in public service. He worked in juvenile corrections, rose to role of program director at the Rite of Passage Juvenile Center, and became a certified peace officer, serving with the Grandview Police Department. “My vast career working with adolescent youth has always been rewarding,” he says. “Helping youth succeed in life is my purpose.”
TEACHER OF THE YEAR: A HUMBLING HONOR
Payne’s passion for teaching shines through in his role at Granbury High School, where he teaches the law and public safety cluster. When he was named Granbury ISD Teacher of the Year, Payne was overwhelmed. “It’s the highlight of my professional career thus far,” he says. “We never do what we do for recognition, but to know that others value the work I do was humbling and emotional.”
For Payne, teaching is more than just a job — it’s a calling. He greets each student with a smile and a handshake, striving to create positive relationships that make every student feel valued. His personal teaching philosophy centers on effort, kindness and growth. “I tell my students, ‘You are always interviewing for your next opportunity in life.’ It’s okay to fail because that’s how we learn.”
In his classroom, Payne also incorporates lessons from “Molly’s Challenge,” an anti-bullying initiative that encourages students to spread 10 words of positivity each day. “The goal is to leave everyone better, more encouraged and supported,” he explains. It’s this commitment to building a caring and inclusive environment that has made him such a beloved educator.
A PASSION FOR MUSIC
While Payne is a dedicated teacher, he’s also making waves in the music world. His love for music began early, growing up in Corsicana, where his father taught him to play guitar and fiddle at the age of 10. By high school, he was performing with his band, 22 West, and opening for Texas music legends like Pat Green and Cory Morrow.
After college, Payne continued to refine his craft, sharing the stage with icons such as David Allan Coe and Whiskey Myers. These experiences shaped him as a musician, but his latest endeavor — a self-titled EP released Oct. 18 — marks a new chapter in his career. The EP is available on all streaming platforms and at ryanpaynemusic.com.
“My favorite thing about being a musician is connecting with others through my music,” Payne shares. “When people feel the same emotions I did while writing the songs, it’s incredibly rewarding.” His songs are a blend of heartfelt storytelling and contemporary country sound, reflecting his life’s journey and experiences.
BALANCING TWO PASSIONS
Juggling his roles as an educator and musician isn’t easy, but Payne manages it with grace. “I schedule shows so they don’t interfere with my teaching,” he says. During the school year, he focuses on songwriting and occasional solo performances, saving most of his concerts for the summer.
Payne also brings his love of music into the classroom. He started a Guitar Club at Granbury High School, where students from diverse musical backgrounds come together to share their passion. “The goal is for the students to perform a live concert for their peers and the community,” he says. “We have an amazing group of talented students, and I’m excited to see what they create.”
THE COMMON THREAD: LEARNING AND GROWTH
For Payne, the worlds of teaching and music have much in common. Both require a willingness to learn, a commitment to growth, and a dedication to connecting with others. “As a teacher, you surround yourself with great educators to learn and improve. As a musician, you do the same with other talented artists,” he explains. “Both roles challenge you to be your best and to help others achieve their potential.”
Though balancing two careers can be demanding, Payne’s passion for both keeps him motivated. He hopes to one day pursue music full time but acknowledges the challenges of the industry and the sacrifices it would require. For now, he’s content to excel in both fields, enriching his students’ lives while sharing his music with a growing audience.
A LEGACY OF IMPACT
Whether in the classroom or on stage, Payne is leaving an indelible mark on the Granbury community. His dedication to teaching and his love for music are two sides of the same coin: a desire to inspire, connect and make a difference.
“I remember the teachers who made me feel supported and challenged me to be my best,” Payne reflects. “Their legacies remain in me today, and it’s my duty to leave that same legacy with each student I meet.”
With his heartfelt approach to education and music, Payne is a true gem in Granbury. Whether you’re a student in his classroom or a listener enjoying his new EP, one thing is certain: Payne’s passion and authenticity shine through in everything he does.
micky@hcnews.com
