Mrs. Austin has served in education at Banks County Middle School as a teacher for 25 years. During this time, she has served on numerous committees such as SACS, department chair, textbook adoptions, standards roll-out, and technology implementation. She has also contributed to many of the school's extracurricular activities, such as organizing science fairs and leading field trips. In addition, she was previously honored as Banks County Middle School TOTY and Banks County Certified Employee of the Year (CEOY) in 2005.
Reflecting on her experience and time spent in Banks County, Mrs. Austin shared, "The ability to change lives through education inspires me. I love challenging and supporting my students in reaching their full potential." Her approach to teaching is rooted in her passion for making a difference and creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to excel.
Understanding the challenges that middle school students often face, Mrs. Austin has instilled a culture of support and belonging in her classroom. She has been a key advocate for the Sources of Strength program, working closely with students to promote wellness, kindness, and strength.
"Middle school can be difficult for many students," says Mrs. Austin. "I am committed to ensuring every student feels valued and supported."
Banks County Middle School Principal Lisa Saxon shared, "Mrs. Austin pours her heart into her classroom each day. She looks for moments where she can positively impact them, both academically and personally. Mrs. Austin brings leadership, enthusiasm, empathy, and joy to our school, and we are honored that she is part of it".
For Mrs. Austin, BCMS is not only a workplace but a family. She describes the school as "an incredible place to work" and emphasizes the support she receives from her colleagues and administration. "I am privileged to work with talented, caring, and hard-working teachers. The administration provides constant support for teacher success," she says.
Her commitment to her students is partly inspired by her 7th-grade Social Studies teacher, Mr. Mills, who she describes as the first person to see her potential and encourage her growth. Following his example, Mrs. Austin now mentors new educators, advising them to see their colleagues as their greatest resource and to learn from one another's successes.
"The teachers in your building are your greatest resource. Visit their classrooms, ask questions, and find out what successful strategies they are using," she advises.
Her dedication extends beyond her work at BCMS. She and her husband, Kevin, a Franklin County Middle School math teacher, have opened their hearts and home to the foster care system. Together, they have fostered children and aided in the reunification process for families, eventually adopting two children: Jenson, a second-grader, and Kaleb, a kindergartner at Banks County Primary School. She is also a member of Southside Church in Commerce, Georgia.
Banks County School System will recognize Austin as the 2024-2025 System Teacher of the Year at the county award ceremony on November 21, 2024. Colleagues from other schools will also be recognized for their Teacher of the Year titles. Austin will go on to compete at the state level for the Georgia Teacher of the Year Title in May 2025.