Educators at Illuminare:

My name is Julie Roper, and I helped launch Illuminare Academy because I believe education should do more than prepare students for tests — it should prepare them for life.

As a mother of five and educator for the last 27 years, I’ve seen how many students feel disconnected from their learning, rushed through material, or shaped by systems that leave little room for wonder, depth, or true character formation. I wanted something different for my own children and for the families I serve — a place where students are known, challenged, and deeply cared for.

My background is rooted in both homeschooling and Christian education. I homeschooled my five children from kindergarten through high school, giving me a deep, personal understanding of what it means to educate the whole child. I have also taught and served in leadership at Classical Consortium Academy in Barrington, a hybrid program supporting homeschool families, and taught at Christian Liberty Academy in Arlington Heights. Throughout my career, I have developed and implemented curriculum and partnered with hundreds of students and families, helping them pursue an education that is both academically rigorous and deeply aligned with their values.

Illuminare Academy grew out of a love for classical learning, the Charlotte Mason philosophy, and a deep commitment to Christ-centered education. I believe children are whole persons — with minds to be trained, hearts to be shaped, and souls to be nurtured. When students are given rich books, meaningful discussion, beauty, and truth, they don’t just learn — they come alive.