Jim has over 38 years of educational leadership experience in both public and private schools and is recognized as a visionary and collaborative leader. He has consistently worked toward individual student success and has been an effective member of the Kansas State Board of Education in redefining what success looks like for Kansas students.
Jim and his wife, Christina, have been married for 39 years and have two children: son Josh of Hays, Kansas, and daughter Jamie Gibson of Prairie Village.
Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas
Ed Specialist Curriculum and Development (1985)
MS Secondary Administration (1977)
St. Mary of the Plains College, Dodge City, Kansas
BA History (1971)
Professional Highlights:
Member, Kansas State Board of Education, District 10 (2012-2016)
Planning and startup Principal for Northeast Magnet High School (1989-2005)
Northeast Magnet High School recognized by the US Department of Education as a New American High School (1999)
Participated in numerous high school reviews and evaluations for the US Department of Education across the nation as well serving the North Central Association in Kansas
Standard of Excellence in reading three years in a row and for the first time ever in math at Northwest HS
Northeast Magnet recognized by the State of Kansas with the Standard of Excellence in math and reading multiple times.
Northeast Magnet recognized as a Kansas Challenge Award Recipient multiple times
Introduction of numerous innovative curriculum, enrichment, advocacy and intervention programs for students at all high schools
Extensive business and community partnerships: Boeing, Raytheon, City of Wichita, community agencies, Bar Association, Wichita State University, and more
Presenter at National, Regional and State professional conferences
Adjunct Instructor for Baker University's Graduate School Leadership Program (2000/2005)
Awards & Recognitions:
2007 Kansas Met Life, "Principal of the Year"
2005 Wichita Community, "Excellence in Public Service Award"
2000 Wichita Bar Association, "Excellence in Law Related Education"
2001 Kansas Association of Secondary Schools Principal, Area IV "Principal of the Year"
1999 US Department of Education, "New American High School Award"
1998 USD 259 Business Professionals Association, "Boss of the Year"
1994 Bank IV and Emporia State University's Jones Institute, "Excellence in School Reform Award"
Professional & Community Involvement:
Kansas High School Activity Association, Board of Directors (2002 to 2009)
Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals, Board of Directors (2000 to 2004)
United School Administrators, Board of Directors (2000 to 2004)
Wichita Bar Association Law in Education, Board (1996 to 2006)
Wichita Arts Council, Board of Directors (1995 to 2005)
Nike Golf Tournament, Board of Directors (1995 to 2002)
Member of numerous educational, community and neighborhood organization over the years