Biography

Julie Simmons has taught in the lower school at Columbus Academy since 1996 and took over as the division's assistant librarian at the start of the 2023-24 school year. She is also team leader of lower school associate teachers. Julie most recently taught first grade from 2019-23 and previously served as the lower school math curriculum coordinator. Julie is a National Geographic Certified Educator and embraces the goal of National Geo certification to inspire the next generation of explorers, conservationists and global citizens. She achieved National Board Certification as an early childhood generalist in 2001, this coming one year prior to obtaining her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction/literacy focus from Ashland University. Julie and her husband Ed have two children, Tony ’08 and Kelly ’10.

Julie’s favorite thing about Columbus Academy
The amazing campus and the freedom faculty members have been given to use the outdoors to support the curriculum. Forest Fridays are simply the best! Also, the sense of community that is part of CA - and the tremendous professional development opportunities available to faculty.

Little-known fact
It is not little-known, but I am an over-the-top hockey fan. I will watch any hockey, any time. I am so excited to have a CA hockey team to support, as I have gone to see several of my lower school students play in hockey games through the years.” 

Favorite sports team
Columbus Blue Jackets

Education
  • B.S. Bowling Green State University , Elementary Education
  • M.Ed. Ashland University , Curriculum and Instruction/Literacy Focus