A Tribute to Mr. Patterson

With twenty-six years of experience, band director, Mr. Patterson is retiring, or students of his would call him: Jpatt. Since the beginning of the foundation of the music wing, Mr. Patterson has been there. 

Mr. Kolusu, a former student teacher to Mr. Patterson is now the second band director at Waukee since the separation in 2020 and has been working with Mr. Patterson since May of 2018. Mr. Kolusu said Mr. Patterson has contributed to the band program immensely. “He’s been the steady hand that has guided the twenty-year development of the band program,” he said. Mr. Patterson has helped to build and expand the band program within the marching band, wind symphony, jazz band, clarinet choir, flute choir, the annual Waukee Marching Band Invitational, and more. He has created the foundation of the Waukee High School band program. 

Mr. Patterson greatly contributed to the ambitions of students in regard to band, ranging from all grade levels. Sophomore, Jessica Kratky, said, “Although this is my first year with Jpatt, I am already going to miss him so much because he’s made my band experience so awesome and happy.” Many students, similar to Kratky, have mentioned something similar about how Jpatt has impacted them. Junior drum major, Beverly Zheng, said, “Mr. Patterson is like the backbone of the band, things won’t be the same without him.” 

Moreover, a handful of senior individuals had been heavily influenced by Mr. Patterson as a director and somebody to look up to, making them want to pursue music as a career full-time. Senior, Violet Thornton, emphasizes how, “Mr. Patterson has definitely influenced me to pursue music. I’ve always been interested in music but Patterson has done a lot to help cultivate and grow my passion for music.” Similarly, Audrey Kalhsdorf, a senior, is currently taking the Introduction to Education class and works with the Timberline band students. She mentions, “My relationship with my band directors has made me want to pursue a career in music myself because of the positive influence Jpatt and Kolusu has had on my life.” 

Mr. Kolusu emphasizes Mr. Patterson’s humility, “He doesn’t enjoy the limelight but he works so hard while understanding the right things at hand. He is always concerned and cares about the kids, the band’s excellence, and is capable of getting the best out of his students while making them feel valued.” For instance, Vivian Steger, a sophomore, elaborates on how “You can really tell how much he loves his job. Especially when he conducts, sings during practices, and more. He brings a lot to the band.”

While many students were shocked at the initial news of Mr. Patterson’s retirement, they were excited for him and his settling down in Florida with his wife.