My name is Joya Austin and I am the proud 4Cs teacher! 4Cs is a special that focuses on communication, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. The 4Cs is a school-wide special; it follows PE in the rotation. 

I am a Carolina girl- born and bred. I grew up in nearby Buies Creek and went to college in Raleigh. I graduated with an AA degree from Peace College in 2000. I then moved to Orlando, Florida and participated in the Walt Disney World College Program. I worked in the different parks, mostly Magic Kingdom, while taking Communication classes to apply towards my major. My role was in Entertainment. (You’ll have to ask me... I will not ruin the magic!)

I finished up with a degree at Campbell University in Communications. Then, a friend asked me to volunteer in her 1st grade classroom. By the end of my stay, I knew I wanted to teach. I went back and earned my teaching certification while working as a TA in Harnett County Schools. Currently, I am certified to teach Elem Ed K-6, Art K-12 and I have my Reading certification.

I moved to Johnston County Schools to begin my teaching career. I taught for ten years (First grade and Art) at McGee’s Crossroads Elementary. I was honored to be named First Year Teacher of the Year in 2006.

I moved to Wake County Schools and joined the Oakview staff two months after the school opened. The 4Cs special has become a combination of stem challenges, technology, art lessons and collaborative learning. I was honored to be named Teacher of the Year in 2022. 

I am married to Taylor, who loves listening to my school stories! We have a daughter, Emerson, who is seven years old and an Oakview Owl. I have a (future Oakview Owl) named Bennett Reese. She is five years old and planning to join us next year. Our family moved to Holly Springs in 2015. When I’m not collaborating with Oakview Owls, I love decorating, shopping and photography. 

To see the #owlsome activities in 4Cs, follow us on X at @AustinsWiseOwls.