Introducing our latest Q&A feature, we are proud to spotlight Laura Austin, who has recently been named 2023-2024’s Teacher of the Year for Livingston Elementary, a Spotsylvania County School. Laura has been an inspiring force in education for six years, with experience across multiple grade levels. She began her teaching journey as a para educator in Louisa County in 2018 before transitioning to a full-time teaching role, spending three years in Louisa and the past three years at Livingston Elementary.

This year marks her first time teaching 1st grade, following her successful tenure teaching 4th and 5th grades. Laura’s passion for education runs deep, not just professionally but personally—she’s a proud product of Livingston Elementary, where she now teaches alongside her mother, Kathy Hayden, a 31-year veteran of education who has twice been honored as Livingston’s Teacher of the Year.

Beyond the classroom, Laura’s life revolves around her family. Her husband, Kyle Austin, and their two sons, Patrick, a 2nd grader at Livingston, and Parker, who will turn three this October, are her biggest supporters. Laura’s commitment to education and her deep ties to the Livingston community make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Let’s dive into our conversation with Laura to learn more about her journey, her insights on teaching, and what drives her passion for education.

What inspired you to become a teacher, and how has that inspiration evolved over the years?

My mother is my biggest inspiration, and the reason why I became a teacher. I grew up listening to her stories and seeing firsthand the difference she has made in so many children’s lives. I’ve always been someone who cares deeply about others and after working in the public health field for several years after graduating college, I finally took the leap to go back for my teaching degree, which, I wish I had done earlier in life because teaching is truly where I’m meant to be.

Can you describe the moment when you found out you were named Teacher of the Year? How did it feel?

It was only my second year at Livingston; to say I was shocked that I made that big of an impact on my colleagues and students, it was shocking and amazing, I’m tearing up thinking about it already. Livingston is such a special place and to be someone who is new to the building and already I felt appreciated by my students and the families here and my co-teachers and the admin. It’s almost indescribable how that makes you feel.

The biggest thing that has contributed to that is the relationships; when the families feel connected, then the students do, and then they are engaged with the learning…there are teachers who have been here for 30 years, and getting their help, they are the experts of Livingston. We’re a puzzle, so I needed all of those things to help me get to where I am.

What do you believe sets your teaching style apart?

I believe that in order for students to learn they need to have a connection with the teacher first; they need to know they are in a safe place where they can make mistakes and grow. I also strongly believe in hands-on learning for all subjects, and provide opportunities for students to learn through singing, movement, creation, and exploration.

What challenges have you faced in your teaching career, and how have you overcome them to achieve success?

One of the biggest challenges I have faced was during the height of COVID with school closures, and then learning how to teach students virtually. Another challenge is finding work-life balance, because I want to give my all to my students and their families, but I also have a family of my own.

Can you share a memorable teaching moment or story that encapsulates your approach to education?

For two years now I have partnered with the Spotsylvania County 4-H program to grow and successfully hatch baby chicks when I taught 4th grade. This allowed my students to understand the scientific method, collect data, make observations, and experience baby chicks being hatched in real-time. I’ll never forget the look on my students’ faces as the first chicks pipped (started hatching). Some of my students made connections because at home they have chickens; and others have never been to a farm so they were able to learn more in-depth about chickens.

What advice would you give to new teachers entering the profession?

Your colleagues will be your best resource. I found that observing other teachers within my building and asking veteran teachers for advice was the most helpful when I was a new teacher. I would also say finding a work/home life balance, because as a new teacher you are so excited to do everything, but you also need to make time for yourself and your family at home.

How do you continue to grow and develop as an educator, and what are your goals for the future?

I’m always looking for professional development conferences such as Get Your Teach On which is an amazing PD opportunity for teachers. My immediate future goal is to begin working on my Master of Education in Instruction and Leadership.

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