Hi, I’m Julie!

As an educator, mom, and lifelong adventurer, I believe curiosity is the
heartbeat of great teaching.

I began my career as a Spanish teacher and later served as a reading
specialist, instructional coach, and principal in Chicago Public Schools.
Over the years, I earned graduate degrees in teaching, literacy, and leadership — but what’s shaped me most has been watching my own children learn. After seeing how a traditional school's “gifted” program left them stressed, anxious, and drained, yet watching them come alive with curiosity and joy at home — building, moving, exploring, and asking endless questions — I knew there had to be a better way.

Curious Kids Chicago grew from that belief: that learning should feel alive, meaningful, and connected to the world around us. Here, families and educators can use our city as a classroom — exploring its stories, cultures, and neighborhoods — and rediscover the wonder that makes learning joyful again.

Stay curious, take, care, and see you out there!
-Julie

PS While my family and I are buzzing around Chicago most of the time, as a new Forest + homeschooling family, we are taking advantage of new-found flexibility, and we take learning on the road whenever we can. Check out our roadschool adventures at www.moveplaylearn.net!

Because when you're an elementary school principal, you dress up on Halloween! #rosierevereengineer!