Julie Tallman and Linda Lund embody the notion that staying active, surrounding oneself with children, and contributing to the community can keep one feeling young at heart. Despite having retired from full-time teaching, these two friends, renowned for their ability to finish each other’s sentences and their light-hearted banter, radiate an energy that’s hard to match. Their decades of teaching experience in Momence have not dimmed their vivacity; instead, they come across as youthful and vibrant, a testament to their shared passion for education and community involvement.

Born and raised in Momence, Julie and Linda have a deep connection to the community, having both served in the local school district before retiring. Julie, whose mother also was a dedicated teacher in Momence, found a way to transition from full retirement to a role that kept her engaged with the school community by becoming a substitute teacher. Linda, after spending thirty-four years teaching in the same classroom, embraced the flexibility and continued interaction with children that substitute teaching offered, a role she has cherished for the past fifteen years.

Their conversations mirror a game of ping pong, with thoughts and memories bouncing back and forth effortlessly. “The nice part for us is the familiarity we have with the kids, and they with us. I couldn’t imagine hopping between different districts. Knowing these kids personally means a lot. They respect us, and when they see us, they know to take us seriously,” they share, laughter peppering their dialogue.

Julie’s journey into teaching began after graduating from the University of Illinois, where she majored in art education. She initially taught art from kindergarten through twelfth grade in Grant Park before moving to Momence, where she felt ready to manage her own classroom. Although she primarily taught fifth grade, Julie eventually returned to her roots in art education, teaching part-time at the high school. Inspired by Linda’s enjoyment of substitute teaching, Julie too decided to step into this role after a decade back in art education.

Linda’s teaching career, though more linear, was no less impactful. Having devoted thirty-four years to teaching sixth grade, she sought a change that allowed her to maintain her connection with students while enjoying greater flexibility. Thus, she moved into substitute teaching, a decision that has kept her engaged and fulfilled for the last fifteen years.

Outside the classroom, Julie and Linda lead rich, active lives. Julie pursues her passion for art, specializing in watercolor, soft pastels, and colored pencil drawings, and experiments with acrylics, though she steers clear of the messier oil paints. Linda dedicates her time to the community as a “friend of the park,” participating in a gardening group that meets weekly to care for Island Park. Together, they join other retired teachers for monthly gatherings, enjoying camaraderie and reminiscing over shared experiences.

Their commitment to giving back to the community extends beyond their professional lives. They volunteer together at local scholarly events, such as the Scholastic Bowl and the Momence Invitational Math Competition, contributing to the vibrant educational landscape of their hometown. “It’s the children who keep us young,” Julie reflects. “Seeing their enthusiasm, their discipline, and their joy in learning—it’s infectious and brings us back time and again.”

Linda adds, with a playful nudge, “We may be old, but we’re not out. We’ve got a wealth of experience, and if that can benefit the kids, then we’re all for it.” Julie quickly chimes in, “It’s about making a difference, however small. That’s what keeps us coming back.”

Through their story, Julie Tallman and Linda Lund showcase the timeless value of community engagement, lifelong learning, and the joy of working with children. Their dedication not only enriches their lives but also serves as an inspiration, proving that one can indeed stay young at heart by staying active, being surrounded by youth, and giving back to the community.