My name is Maria Sharrett and I was born in Virginia and raised here in Georgia for most of my life. I grew up playing sports, graduated from North Gwinnett High School, and played softball at Georgia State University. Taylor and I got married right out of college and started a family while he worked in construction and I continued on my education journey. Currently, Taylor owns his own company and I am a Director of Special Education at Georgia Connections Academy. I love spending time with my family and volunteering at church. When I am not at the ballfield for one of our kid’s sports you can find me running or working out alone or with friends. I am definitely an extrovert and love meeting new people. About a year ago, the Lord laid on my heart to give back and find joy in work again. That little nudge led to the start of Grace Upon Grace, where our mission is to support individuals with disabilities, provide comfort to those in need, and give back to the community.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been married to Taylor Sharrett since June 4, 2011 and fall in love more every single day. I have three children Weston, Hadley Kate, and Walker all attending Buford City Schools. They are all full of personality and love Jesus, sports, and spending time with their family and friends.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I worked as a special education teacher at Mountain View High School for six years. In 2011 I took the leap of faith into leadership as a Director of Special Education at Georgia Connections Academy. I am now on my eighth year as the Director of Special Education and ADA coordinator.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Rico’s, Aqua Terra, and Bare Bones
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I grew up in Suwannee and currently live in Auburn, Ga. We prayed for the best fit for our children to begin their education, and have been blessed through the Buford community since.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
That is hard to answer. We truly have been blessed with such a kind and outgoing community with personalities that complement one another.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would take my family to Greece to learn more about my heritage.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Beat Bobby Flay!
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Listen to the Lord because he has BIG plans for YOU!
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Run a successful non profit and write a children’s book series.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Lauren Daigle
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
TD Impressions
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?
Maggie Pruitt because she is my best friend and is on our board to begin the non profit. I would have lunch at Aqua Terra so that her students can serve us and practice their post secondary skills.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I have met some of my very best friends in this community. Everyone is so giving and caring and love the Buford Wolves!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Running Grace Upon Grace and my consulting company helping individuals with disabilities.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love to read
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Greece and Hawaii
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
December and Christmas. I love everything about Christmas and celebrating Jesus’s birthday.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The love of our Savior!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband, Taylor Sharrett
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Cookies coming out of the oven and peppermint oils
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Jesus, Family, Love
