My story of how listening to my heart and having the courage to blaze my own trail led me away from my career path and to a greater career and better self. James joined the NBPS Leadership team in 2018. He started as a High School English teacher in the Chicago, and has served as a classroom teacher, a special educator, and an administrator of special needs and student supports in public schools, and private international schools. He is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Republic of the Philippines 2002-04), and his career has taken him to places like Washington, DC; Silver Spring, MD; Stamford, CT; and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
James earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and Literature from Illinois Wesleyan University, a Master’s in Transitional Special Education from The George Washington University, and his principal’s certification from Antioch University, New England. He is also an accomplished high school football and volleyball coach. James is a strong advocate for all of the students and families in the LPA program. He always has their best interest in mind and strives to serve as a leader and mentor. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx