Born and raised in the heart of the Vail Valley in Colorado, Julia had a passion for nature and curiosity ingrained in her by her family, schools, and community. Julia has majored in Educational Foundations with a minor in creative writing, public speaking, and critical thinking to fuel her desire for knowledge and education in hopes of becoming a teacher. She has spent over 500 hours working with students in K-8 in both school and summer camp settings. This work has created a knowledge base of safety skills, a professional interface, and inspiring learning through exploration. Joining the Aves Compartidas project has allowed her to bring back her love for environmental education, immerse herself in bilingual education, and promote an enthusiasm for protecting the environment.
My Values!
Every student have the right to be in charge of their own education!
Julia teaching 3rd grade students how to use binoculars. Photo courtesy of Katie Lynch (2025)
Learning best occurs when joy is brought into the classroom!
Julia teaching 3rd grade students how hummingbirds fly. Photo courtesy of Jayda Roberts (2025)
All students have a creative side; it's important we educators unlock it!
One of Julia's 3rd grade students final poster about the Colibrí Rufo/Rufous Hummingbird. Photo courtesy of Julia Shay (2025)