Julie Butler
6–8 Health and Physical Education Teacher
Master of Education in Online Instruction, Southern New Hampshire University; Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, University of Central Florida
Julie Butler is a Health and Physical Education teacher at Missouri Connections Academy. She began teaching in 1994 and joined Missouri Connections Academy in 2023. In her role, she supports middle school students as they learn how to understand, value, and care for their physical and mental well‑being.
Why I Became an Educator
I was drawn to the work/life balance. Both of my parents worked in education, and I loved that our family spent so much time together while constantly learning. As a result, I developed a deep appreciation for the physical world and a strong desire to share with others how we can protect it, understand it, and truly value it.
The Online School Experience
Missouri Connections Academy allows students to start where they are and progress to where they should be with a variety of tools, interventions, and class options.
I love the flexibility for my students and me. I know that some students work best in the morning, some in the afternoon, and some in the evening. This program allows students to do their best at the time that is best suited for them, and I love that I can help at different times during the day when they are the most receptive.
Missouri Connections Academy also incorporates optional opportunities for socialization so students and teachers don’t feel alone behind a screen.
My Favorite Classroom Activities
My favorite classroom activity is Quizizz (now Wayground) because it can be either topic-based or just for fun. I especially love Fridays when we have social time and just get to know each other a little better, share our animals, play games (my favorite being Name That Tune), or just talk about school, friends, and the future.
Life Beyond the Classroom
I love to walk on the beach and in the mountains. I enjoy reading and journaling and sharing my love of health and the human body with anyone who will listen. I love going to springboard dive meets, traveling (I have been to all 50 states), watching pug videos, watching movies, and doing anything with my husband, four children, two dogs, and one cat.
"Missouri Connections Academy is a positive place of inclusivity that invites all students to be successful and to begin where they are."
— Ms. Butler