Julia received her Bachelor’s Degree in music education and her Master’s in Elementary Education.  In addition to being the music educator at Park Hall Elementary, she organizes and directs six grade level programs per year, as well as winter and spring choral concerts, composing music for students to perform.  She spends her summers teaching in the Reading and Mathematics Academies and Fine Arts Camps.  Julia has also assumed leadership roles serving as co-chair of the School Climate Committee, SIT member, Chairperson of the Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) team, coordinator of Park Hall’s “Peace Committee,” and leader of PBIS assemblies.  She is also a new teacher mentor, mentor teacher for St. Mary’s College, Professional Day Presenter and a representative on the Superintendent’s Faculty Council.

How has the way you teach changed over the course of your career?  What lessons have you learned?

My eleven year career has brought me more joy and satisfaction than I ever imagined it could.  When I became a music teacher, I was content to be a great music teacher.  Over the years, though, I have made myself familiar with curriculum from other subject areas and grade levels within my school.  Whenever possible, I include this curriculum in my music lessons.  I hope to show students what a wonderful thing education can be, and especially that music education can benefit them in many different ways.

The biggest lesson I have learned is that teaching never gets any easier; it becomes more challenging.  In my opinion, a good teacher is never satisfied.  While continuing to integrate successful strategies and teaching ideas, a teacher constantly seeks out new strategies, ideas, and materials

What advice would you give to a teacher who’s starting their first year and feels overwhelmed?

There are several things I would suggest for new teachers:
(1) Get  organized, ASAP; (2) Be friendly with the secretaries and custodians; you will often need their assistance; (3) Don’t be afraid to ask experienced teachers for advice and assistance; (4) Be flexible; many things can happen during a school day; (5) Don’t be afraid to modify a lesson while teaching; sometimes you will experience that “teachable moment” and should take time to discuss a point; other times, the lesson may not be going well; (6) Make your classroom warm and inviting (7) Take time to introduce yourself to parents at the beginning of the year; (8) Take time to notify parents of student successes (9) When disciplining students, speak with them privately; never in front of others; (10) Read the book Teaching with Love and Logic; (11) Whenever possible, make learning fun!

What do you think the key has been to your success as a teacher?

There are two things that I believe have contributed to my success as a teacher.  First is my relationship with my students.  I treat all students with dignity and respect, and expect the same in return.  Second, I credit my continued pursuit of education and excellence as major factors in my success.  I have taken numerous graduate level courses covering a variety of subject areas.  I try to integrate other curriculum in my lessons whenever possible, especially literature and mathematics. 

How do you keep your students engaged in the classroom?

I am lucky enough to teach a subject that lends itself to activity and engagement.  Music is such a wonderful subject; students can perform on instruments, sing, dance, and learn about history and other cultures.  However, when implementing activities that may not be as much fun for students, I keep several things in mind.  First, I am cognizant of the different ability levels of my students.  I have students work in pairs or groups, if necessary.  Second, I modify the instruction for special needs students.  Third, I praise my students often.   Finally, I find ways to present my lessons in a manner that students will enjoy and learn from.