As Director of Middle School at The New Community School in Richmond, Virginia, Julie has transformed the division by fostering an inclusive and innovative environment. Her leadership spans curriculum design, faculty development, and student life programming, all aimed at empowering students to discover their passions and reach their fullest potential. She has also spearheaded initiatives in admissions, accreditation, and strategic planning, contributing to the school’s mission to support students who think and learn differently.

Julie’s career began in the classroom, where her passion for teaching students with learning differences was ignited. Over a decade of teaching experience includes roles at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, where she developed and implemented individualized instructional plans to support diverse learners. As a Middle School Teacher at The New Community School, Julie specialized in designing differentiated instruction for students with dyslexia and related challenges, focusing on executive function, language fundamentals, and metacognitive strategies.

Before that, she served as a Special Education Teacher at Goochland Elementary, Mechanicsville High School, and Pocahontas Middle School. Across these roles, Julie gained extensive experience working with students with a variety of needs, including ADHD, autism, and emotional disabilities. Her work emphasized collaboration with families, the development of IEPs, and the integration of assistive technology to enhance learning outcomes. These years in the classroom not only solidified her instructional expertise but also deepened her understanding of the importance of fostering trust and partnerships with families.

Her teaching and leadership expertise have extended beyond the classroom through professional presentations. Julie has shared her knowledge at conferences such as the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) Academic Support Conference and the International Conference of the Learning Disabilities Association. Her workshops on differentiated math instruction, assistive technology, and metacognition have empowered educators to better support their students with learning differences.

Julie’s commitment to educating the whole child is central to her philosophy. She has designed and implemented programs addressing social, emotional, and wellness needs alongside academic growth. By fostering strong partnerships with families and community stakeholders, Julie builds a supportive network that empowers students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Julie holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Richmond and a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from High Point University. She maintains professional licensure in Special Education K-12, Middle Education for English and History/Social Studies, with an Administration and Supervision endorsement.

Julie enjoys spending time with her family – her husband, her three kids, and two dogs, exploring the outdoors and traveling, a smattering of recreational sports and long-distance running, and championing practices that celebrate the strengths of every learner.