When you look back on the relationships you built during high school, the first thing you reminisce about are your old friends, the laughs you shared and all the memories you made. You also remember the teachers. James Wilson, Special Education, Sociology, U.S. History, and Criminal Justice teacher, wants to be the kind of teacher students will remember. 

Born in New Jersey and raised in Cedar Grove, Wilson dabbled in many activities growing up. From sports like soccer, football, and basketball, to extra curricular activities such as theater and boy scouts, Wilson enjoyed everything he participated in. Eventually he decided to start coaching sports and teaching at his Catholic church.

“I was always teaching, whether it was teaching religious classes or coaching sports from basketball to volleyball, it was something I always liked to do,” Wilson said. “It was so much fun watching the kids grow in the skills of the game and have fun.”

While participating in all of these activities, Wilson also wanted to study Sociology and Criminal Justice. In college, his original major was business, but Wilson felt the need to change gears and his studies.

“My father thought I would enjoy business, but I disliked it so I studied Sociology, History, Criminal Justice and Honors Literature instead. In UACHS, I teach US History, Criminal Justice, Sociology and Special Education,” Wilson said. 

Wilson wants to be a calming influence to teach his students to make intelligent decisions. His goal as a teacher is to help them be on the right path, and to make strong bonds that will make a lasting impact. 

“You have to be trusted and build positive, nurturing relationships, that’s the most important thing about teaching,” Wilson said. “I’m very fortunate to have the kids that I have, and to be a part of their high school stories.”