Julie James trained since the age of seven in all styles of dance, and she is equally proficient as an actress, vocalist, and pianist. Her performing experience includes leading and supporting roles in more than thirty productions for both stage and television.

       Julie holds Bachelor Degrees in Education and Liberal Arts and a Master's Degree in Administration from the University of Missouri. She teaches 3rd grade at Richardson Elementary in Lee's Summit, Missouri. At the Academy, she directs the Show Steppers musical theater troupe, and she is assistant director and choreographer for the Academy's Summerstage performing arts camps.

       Julie and her husband, Mike, have two children: Madeline and Danny.