Student Spotlight: JayJ and Caroline – Balancing Music and Education on the Road

For most students, the school year means classrooms, school supplies, and the familiar routine of homework and extracurricular activities. But for JayJ and Caroline, their school years look a little different. As members of the folk-Americana band, The Carlile Family Band, these talented siblings are balancing their education with life on the road, performing across the country while enrolled in an online public school.

JayJ and Caroline, have been making waves in the music industry while continuing their studies through Washington Virtual Academies. Thanks to the flexibility of online learning, they can keep up with their coursework while traveling from coast to coast while performing national tours. 

The Carlile Family Band has played at more than a hundred locations nationwide, all while staying on top of their schoolwork. Their mother, Lia Carlile, serves as both their tour manager and their learning coach, ensuring they stay on track academically while pursuing their passion for music. As the Assistant Principal at Washington Virtual Academies’ Special Programs, Lia understands firsthand the value of a flexible, high-quality education. 

“I get the opportunity to work in the field I’m passionate about while supporting my children’s passions and ensuring they get a solid education,” Lia Carlile shared. 

One of the most unforgettable moments of their tour was performing in the parking lot at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater before their aunt Brandi Carlile’s headline show. That same night, the duo was invited onstage in front of nearly 13,000 fans, a dream come true for any aspiring musician. JayJ also had the opportunity to join Gregory Alan Isakov on mandolin for his encore set, a testament to the siblings’ incredible talent and hard work. 

While their days are filled with travel, rehearsals, and performances, JayJ and Caroline remain dedicated to their education. From taking standardized tests in their motorhome to checking in with teachers and completing homework between gigs, they exemplify the possibilities that online education offers young entrepreneurs and artists. 

“The online school system lets us pursue our passion as young musicians and entrepreneurs while still getting a high school education,” Caroline explained. 

Meet the Musicians 

Caroline and JayJ write, record, and produce their own music. The band has been playing together for six years and are currently on tour performing at new locations across the country and being highlighted on radio shows along the way. 

Caroline is a singer-songwriter, musician, frontwoman, and entrepreneur. She loves being an entertainer and takes joy in connecting with audiences, bringing people together through music. As the frontwoman of the band, she thrives on having a great time every night. As a songwriter, she finds inspiration in seeing people relate to her lyrics and is especially moved when fans share how her songs have impacted them.  

JayJ is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He supports his sister on stage with his fiddle, mandolin, bass, guitar, and vocals. When he’s not playing music, he enjoys fishing and spending time with his band and family. He also plays music with his cousins and aunts. Whether he’s on stage or by a secluded lake, river, or pond, JayJ is always immersed in what he loves most—music and the great outdoors.  

By embracing a non-traditional path, these students are proving that education doesn’t have to be confined to a classroom. With determination, discipline, and a love for music, JayJ and Caroline are setting the stage for a bright future—both academically and musically.