School District of Washington

April 4, 2025

Augusta Elementary Third-Grade Teacher Julia Young Named SDOW, WINGS Teacher of the Year

Julia Young, third-grade teacher at Augusta Elementary, has been named the School District of Washington and WINGS Teacher of the Year.

WINGS recognizes a teacher of the year from the School District of Washington each year. The recipient receives a check for $1,000.

Young has been in education for 25 years. She’s been with the School District of Washington for 11 years, all at Augusta Elementary.

“I'm deeply honored and grateful for this recognition. There are so many incredible educators in our district, so it's truly humbling to be chosen,” Young said. “My nomination came from a fellow teacher and parent of a student I taught two years ago. It's always incredibly meaningful when someone acknowledges the impact you've had on their child.”

Young is now eligible for the Regional Teacher of the Year. The Regional Teacher of the Year will then be in the running for the State Teacher of the Year.

Anyone had the opportunity to submit a nomination for the School District of Washington and WINGS Teacher of the Year.

SDOW Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart and a committee reviewed the nominations and submitted a group of finalists to the WINGS Board, who selected the winner.

“Mrs. Young exemplifies the dedication, passion and commitment that make the School District of Washington an exceptional place for students to learn and grow,” Kephart said. “Mrs. Young has an unwavering focus on student success, innovative teaching, and the ability to create a supportive and engaging classroom environment. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her impact and the difference she makes in the lives of students every day.”

Young found out about the award during an assembly at Augusta Elementary on Wednesday, April 2. Members of WINGS and SDOW administrators were on hand for the announcement, as was her family.

“Sharing that special moment with my loved ones was pure bliss,” Young said. “Seeing the signs and hearing the cheers brought a big smile to my face and the sight of my husband and sons beaming with pride warmed my heart. I couldn't wait to embrace them all.”

“I am so proud and happy for Julia. She is an exceptional teacher who is child-centered. Building a strong relationship with each of her students is her top mission,” said Augusta Elementary Principal Dr. Mary Robertson. “She creates a home away from home environment where her students can feel safe to learn and seek assistance without hesitation. Julia continuously strives to find new ways to teach and engage students in meaningful learning. She is versed in several strategies and knows multiple ways to present material.”

Young is proud to be part of the Augusta Elementary staff.

“Augusta Elementary is the most special school I've ever taught at. From the moment I walked in and saw the principal eating lunch with the kitchen manager, PE teacher, and custodian, I knew this place was different,” Young said. “Here, no one is more important than anyone else, and I hope our kids learn that from watching us. The kids and families are the reason I'll stay at Augusta until I retire. They're so supportive and giving, and we're truly one big family here - loyal, helpful and kind.”

Young has both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in elementary education from Missouri State University, and a specialist degree in educational technology from the University of Central Missouri.

Julia and her husband, Grant, have two sons, Kaner, a 2024 Washington High School graduate who currently attends East Central College, and Ryker, currently an eighth-grade student at Washington Middle School. Grant is the Missouri Options instructor and head softball coach at Washington High School.

“As a child, I dreamed of becoming a rock star. I earned the nickname ‘Rocky’ from my fourth-grade teacher due to my passion for singing. However, as I matured, I realized that fame wasn't my calling,” Julia said. “Instead, I found my true passion in teaching, inspired by two influential educators; my third-grade teacher and my aunt, a dedicated elementary school teacher for over 30 years. They taught me the importance of finding joy and not taking life too seriously, which I strive to instill in my own classroom every day. They also emphasized the significance of earning respect through respect. I make sure each student feels valued and seen in my classroom. Teaching is the most rewarding job because you can touch so many lives, but that's not what I am the most grateful for. I am the most grateful for all the people I have met throughout my career and the impact they have had on my life. I am a better teacher because I have been surrounded by the best.”