My name is Lisa Godwin.  I was born and raised in a little farming community called Swann Station, which is located just outside of Sanford, North Carolina.  My dad was the minister of the Baptist Church in this community.  I mention this because watching his service to the community helped to shape my educational philosophy and beliefs.  I learned at an early age to love with an open heart and serve with open hands. This is how I conduct myself as an educator!  I believe that we are all unique and special.  We ALL have gifts and talents to share!  It is my job, as an educator, to help each child identify their gifts and talents so they can go out into the world as strong, secure and confident individuals! 

I am a proud graduate of St. Andrews Presbyterian University and began my educational journey in 1997 with the Lee County School System.  I have taught Kindergarten, 5th grade, and Physical Education during my tenure.  After obtaining my Master Degree in School Administration in 2009 from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I served as an Assistant Principal in Lee County for 2 years.  I began my service with the Onslow County School District in 2012. I was the Assistant Principal at Meadow View Elementary for 2 years before deciding to join the Dixon Elementary Family in 2013. Although I enjoyed serving in an administrative role, it did not fulfill me and bring me the joy that I felt from being a classroom teacher!  I decided that life is too short not to do what you love, so going back to being a Kindergarten teacher at Dixon Elementary helped me find my joy again!  I am now  ready to spread that same joy at Coastal Elementary School! 

In 2017, I was honored to be named North Carolina's Teacher of the Year.  It is something that I certainly do not feel worthy of, but I am thankful for the opportunity to serve.  Please understand that this does NOT mean that I am the best teacher in the North Carolina ...far from it!  I am constantly questioning just what they saw in me and why I was given this tremendous blessing.

So, if I am your child's teacher, please remember that I am not perfect and I will make mistakes... LOTS of them!  That is why I will need YOU to be an active participant in your child's academic life! TOGETHER, we can hold each other accountable and help your child achieve their individual goals! 

Who am I outside of school?  I am blessed to be married to my best friend and have twin sons and two beautiful daughter-in -loves that make me proud every day!  I love to read on the beach, watch movies and spend time with my family and friends!  I am a "HOKIE HEEL" which means I pull for the Virginia Tech Hokies and the UNC Tar Heels!  I also love the Carolina Hurricanes, The Washington Football Team, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Cubs! I sing in a praise band and am very involved in my church.  On the weekends and during the summer months, I work alongside my husband in our family's surf shop!  

Thanks for taking the time to learn more about me!