Washington Virtual Academies Teacher Inspires Students Through Music and Hollywood Dreams

At Washington Virtual Academies, students aren’t just learning from textbooks—they’re being inspired by educators who live and breathe their passions. One such teacher is Austin Sloan, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) instructor whose journey as a musician and actor serves as a powerful example for students to follow their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

For the past 16 years, Austin has been teaching students across Washington State through Washington Virtual Academies. His role as an educator extends beyond traditional coursework though, as he seamlessly blends his love for music and acting into his teaching methods, making learning more engaging and relatable for students. His dedication to education has helped shape the lives of countless students, providing them with real-world insights into the arts, media, and entertainment industries. 

Prior to the 2024-2025 school year, Austin took his passion for music to the next level by releasing more than 50 songs— one of which focuses on the importance of online learning. His music is available on all major streaming platforms, allowing students the ability to connect with his teachings both inside and outside the classroom. Through his music, Austin, a.k.a.“Chill Sloan” incorporates lessons about perseverance, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge, helping to inspire students in ways beyond traditional teaching methods, some of which are fellow actors! 

“I think [online schools like Washington Virtual Academies] are helping students. A student and I were both working on a film at the same time and she couldn’t have done that if she was in brick-and-mortar because she’d be missing a lot of school… She was doing school in the motel in-between filming,” said Sloan. “We have a lot of kids who have jobs as actors, singers, dancers, athletes, and students whose parents are high publicity… so this works for them.” 

But Austin’s talents don’t stop at music. His acting career has landed him roles in popular television shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Portlandia, and Grimm. Whether he’s in the classroom during the day or on a film set at night, Austin embodies the belief that pursuing multiple passions is possible with the right mindset and planning. His ability to juggle these roles highlights the importance of time management, resilience, and dedication—valuable lessons he shares with his students. 

His story is an inspiration to students, showing them that with determination and creativity, they can carve out their own unique paths. Whether a student dreams of becoming an artist, musician, filmmaker, or entrepreneur, Austin’s journey proves that dedication and perseverance can turn those dreams into reality. By sharing his real-world experiences in the entertainment industry, he helps students understand that success is not always linear and that setbacks and challenges can be stepping stones to greater achievements.

Beyond the classroom, Austin is also actively involved in mentoring students who have a passion for music and acting. He provides guidance on how to break into the industry, offering practical advice on auditioning, networking, and navigating the entertainment world. His willingness to share his knowledge and experiences makes him not just a teacher but also a mentor and role model to aspiring young artists. 

He fosters a supportive learning atmosphere where students are reminded that their dreams are valid and achievable. His passion for teaching, music, and acting continues to inspire, proving that education and creativity can go hand in hand to shape the future of young minds.