Mr. James Western received a BS degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and his teaching and administration credentials from Cal State San Bernardino where he also received his MA degree in Education Administration. He has been in education for nearly 23 years and has served in many capacities. He was a business/ technology teacher, assistant principal, and also a principal for both middle school and high school in California and most recently as the Assistant Director of Academics for American Leadership Academy West Foothills High School for the last 3 1/2 years.

Mr. Western is a strong advocate for education and believes in the learning process. He strives to embody the RAISE values (Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence) in all he does. He strongly believes that American Leadership Academy is needed in today's world for its strong leadership program and moral and wholesome environment. He is proud to be part of the team (admin, teachers, and staff) that led ALAWFHS to its initial "A" grade as a school. He believes that only by partnering with parents, students, and the community can we "Learn, Lead, and Change the World".

Mr. Western is from southern California and comes from a family of six children. He has been married for 35 years to his wife, Brenda, who is also an educator in Arizona. He has one son and several foster children that he still remains in contact with. In his free time, he loves to play the piano, be with his family, hike, trail ride with his friends, or see a good movie. His favorite quote is, "The past is my experience, the future is my challenge but the present is my responsibility."  - Liberian Missionary