Hi there! I'm Emily Hejl, and I’m so excited to be part of the 2nd grade team and the Joyner family! I grew up in the charming town of Athens, Ohio, but North Carolina has stolen my heart and is now proudly home.

I hold master’s degrees in Business, Psychology, and most recently—Elementary Education! I’ve always had a deep love for learning and take great pride in expanding my own knowledge so I can bring the very best to my classroom.

Outside of school, you’ll find me adventuring with my husband Ethan—whether we’re exploring the country, relaxing at the beach, or taking peaceful walks with our sweet dogs. I absolutely love meeting new people, learning their stories, and building meaningful relationships, both inside and outside the classroom.

Here’s to a joyful, curious, and fun-filled year in 2nd grade!

My name is Paige Farrell, and I’m thrilled to be joining the J.Y. Joyner family this year! Before becoming an educator, I spent five exciting years as an entertainment publicist in Los Angeles, where I had the opportunity to work on events such as the Oscars, the Emmys, and the Cannes Film Festival. While I enjoyed the fast-paced world of publicity, I discovered my true passion was in education.

I earned my Master’s in Education from Pepperdine University and hold undergraduate degrees in Strategic Communications and Interior Design from High Point University. Over the course of six wonderful years in Bel Air, California, I had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten, 2nd, and 3rd grade before relocating to Raleigh last summer with my husband Sean, our daughter Sloane, and our energetic Australian Shepherd, Millie. Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling, visiting family in my hometown of Charleston, SC, and doing ken-ken puzzles. I’m a bit of a numbers enthusiast, which is one of the reasons I love teaching math. I look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growth!

My name is Kristin Silberman, and I am so excited to be joining the J.Y. Joyner 2nd grade team this year! I am originally from Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in Elementary Education. I began my career teaching Fourth grade in Northeast Florida. I taught for eight years during which time I also obtained my masters degree in reading curriculum. After getting married to my wonderful husband, Stephen and having two energetic boys, Wyatt (6th grade) and Cooper (5th grade), I became the director at the preschool they attended. Last year, we left Florida and made Raleigh our new home. In my free time, I love crafting, reading, traveling, and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to an amazing year! 

Hello! My name is Sabrina Sicilia. I am incredibly excited to be joining the Joyner family as a teacher this year. I was raised on Long Island, NY and moved to NC as a teenager. I then graduated from NCSU (Go Pack!) in 2021 with degrees in Psychology and Political Science, and I have been working to help children learn ever since. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy devouring a good book, writing, exploring nature, and spending time with my friends, family, and kitties. I am greatly looking forward to spending this year getting to know you and your child!