Paul Cabaniss - A Legacy Rooted in Character & his journey at ACS Athens!

written by Lydia Skampavia, class of 1993

In the heart of every institution, there are those whose contributions quietly shape its very soul, not through grand gestures or headlines, but through dedication, humility, and the lifelong impact they leave on students and colleagues alike. One such individual is Paul Cabaniss, a beloved teacher whose legacy at ACS Athens is stitched into the very fabric of its history.

Born in Dallas, Texas, with roots deeply grounded in both American and Greek heritage, Paul embodies the best of both worlds. Proudly Greek-American, he never let go of his connection to Greece, cherishing his Greek passport and holding tightly to a culture that became more than just part of his identity. It became home.

Mr. Cabaniss joined ACS Athens in the 1960s, in a time when the school itself stood on the outskirts of Athens, nestled in what he fondly describes as a “gypsy field,” filled with goats, loud music, and the warm hospitality of Sideri’s general store, where teachers gathered over steaming bowls of fasolada and oversized omelettes. It was a different time, one you see in black and white movies, a time defined by resilience, simplicity, and deep human connection.

Throughout his 25-year journey at ACS Athens, Mr. Cabaniss taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, both in Halandri and for a time in the unique open-concept school at Hellenikon Air Force Base. His versatility as an educator shone through in the many hats he wore — teaching not only children but also adults, offering typing, shorthand, and ESL classes during the school’s community outreach programs. Summers didn’t slow him down either; he continued to teach English and typing, and even served as director of the summer program. His work went beyond lesson plans, it was about empowerment, imagination, respect, community, and connection.

These were not always easy times. Paul Cabaniss was a witness to history as the school remained open during the Greek junta from 1967 to 1974, navigating challenging circumstances with quiet determination. His loyalty to ACS Athens, his students, and his fellow faculty members was unwavering — a testament to the values he lives by: trustworthy, grateful, curious, appreciative, and loyal.

To hear Mr. Cabaniss, speak of his time at ACS Athens is to feel a deep, abiding love for a place and its people. “The many students that I taught and my colleagues that I worked with provided me with a lifetime of memorable experiences,” he writes — and you can feel the warmth, the pride, and the nostalgia in every word.

Though many of his physical memories — the photos, certificates, and mementos — were left behind when he left Greece, the most important treasures of all were never lost. They live on in the countless lives he touched, in the classroom moments that still echo in memory, and in the friendships that endure across time and distance, like the one he shares with his dear friend and colleague Chris Perakis.

Today, as we honor Paul Cabaniss and his remarkable chapter in the story of ACS Athens, we are reminded that legacies are not built on accolades or possessions, but on character, purpose, and love. And in these, Paul Cabaniss’ legacy is as enduring as it is inspiring.

Thank you, Mr. Cabaniss, for your service, your heart, and the gentle strength with which you taught, led, and lived.  While I was writing his story, and reflecting on his journey at ACS Athens, I did so from the copper seat he purchased in the theater; row 25 seat # 19, to support the school initiatives.  Thank you, Mr. Cabaniss, for giving back to your school!

You will always be part of the ACS Athens Legacy.