James Thompson, Sr., Principal

Born and raised in the city of Camden, following his graduation from Rutgers University Camden, Mr. Thompson began working for Camden City Public Schools in 2001 as an elementary school Special Education teacher. He spent four years at the middle school level before moving on to become a part of a new and innovative high school in Camden, affiliated with The Big Picture Learning Model. Mr. Thompson was named teacher of the year two years consecutively while working at the high school.

While teaching, Mr. Thompson went back to school and earned two Masters Degrees from Wilmington University in leadership and counseling. He briefly left the Camden City School District to pursue an opportunity at Camden County College as Assistant to the Dean, and Assistant Director of the EOF Program. This opportunity prepared him with the much-needed administrative experience for a return to the Camden City School District as a Vice-Principal at his Alma Mater Camden High School.

After being at Camden High School as Vice Principal for a short time, the district quickly honed in on his post-secondary expertise from Camden County College and transitioned him into the position of Supervisor of Career and Technical Education & Post-Secondary Readiness.

While in this position, Mr. Thompson had the opportunity to work with students of all ages and learning levels, exposing them to a variety of different opportunities to prepare them for college and career opportunities. He continued to work very closely with Camden High School helping students explore the many options and opportunities that were available to them after High school.

Mr. Thompson was then elevated to the position of Principal of Camden High School where he served as the instructional leader for 5 years. In June of 2014, he was inducted into the Camden High School Hall of Fame for his career accomplishments and service to the Camden City community.

In 2015 Mr. Thompson transitioned to the role of Principal and CEO at Olney Charter High School, where he served as the operational and instructional leader, growing the school from 1500 students to over 2000 students. The school boasted the best graduation rate and student growth metrics for its demographic served. Under his leadership the school established a fully functional health center, childcare center, and multiple vocational programs.

Mr. Thompson now serves as the Principal of Bluford Charter School in West Philadelphia, where he serves over 500 K-8 students, where he works with a team to ensure that students are afforded the opportunity to learn and grow with the appropriate support.