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Lindbergh Schools Announces Real World Learning Coordinator for 2025-26

Feb. 25, 2025

Lindbergh Schools is increasing its efforts to support real-world learning experiences for students and prepare them for success in college, career and life following graduation. 

On Feb. 20, the Board of Education voted to approve the hiring of Julie Durham as Lindbergh’s first Real World Learning coordinator, beginning in the 2025-26 school year. 

At Lindbergh High School, Durham will engage directly with local businesses and community partners to develop mutually beneficial opportunities for students, including internships and client-connected projects.  She will recruit and engage students in these opportunities and support teachers in accessing real-world learning for classroom instruction.

“Julie’s leadership in her current role has been a game-changer for student career exploration” said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Tara Sparks. “This work demonstrates her commitment to creating authentic, real-world learning opportunities for students, and we are excited to leverage her expertise here in Lindbergh to design pathways to success for all learners.”

Durham returns to Lindbergh from the Wentzville School District, where she has developed the nationally recognized Success Ready Programming initiative, and currently serves as Success Ready Content Leader, developing and implementing programs for students in grades 6-12 that align with workforce needs. Prior to that, Durham taught business at Lindbergh High School for 7 years. She served as an advisor for Future Business Leaders of America, and in 2022 was named LHS Teacher of the Year.

"I'm overjoyed to be coming back to the Lindbergh community,” Durham said. “I have a passion for creating opportunities for students to learn and grow while finding their path to success. I look forward to sharing my experiences and collaborating with the Lindbergh community to provide outstanding opportunities for our learners!"

The Real-World Learning Coordinator also will play an important role in developing Diploma Plus opportunities for LHS students. These programs provide students with skills that set them up for success after graduation, and include:

Learn more about Lindbergh Schools at www.tinyurl.com/lindberghsuccess.