Julie P. Romero

Julie P. Romero

1997, M.A., Curriculum and Instruction, CSULB
1990, B.A., Liberal Studies, CSULB

"Mrs. Romero always finds a way to make learning fun and interesting," writes one of her fifth grade students at Old River Elementary School in Downey where she's taught since 1997. Julie Romero's passion for teaching has resulted in numerous accolades including nomination for Disney's American Teacher Award in 1999 and selection as Teacher of the Year by the Downey Masonic Lodge in 1998.

Previously at Imperial Elementary School in the Downey Unified School District, Romero serves its the district's visual and performing arts mentor, beginning teacher support provider and a master teacher for CSULB's Student Teaching Program.

Using her creative bent, the Downey native started an after school drama club that performs Shakespeare's comedies complete with period costumes. " My proudest moments as a teacher have been in making a difference in the lives of difficult and troubled children, helping them see themselves in a more positive way," says Romero, who comes from a family of teachers.

She and her husband, Louie, enjoy traveling to museums in Italy, London and New York and, of course, to the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Ore.