James F. Waller

James F. Waller joined Friendship Public Charter School in 2008. As chief of schools, James leads the school operation functions, including student information, health services, food services, community and corporate engagement, and facilities and building operations. He previously served as deputy chief academic officer for Friendship, overseeing school budgets, special education and student support services.

James has worked for more than 20 years in various leadership roles supporting child and youth development initiatives. Prior to joining Friendship, he served as national executive director for EVERYBODY WINS! USA, a youth mentoring and literacy program. There he provided program oversight and fund development for a network of 15 national affiliates.

James also served as senior vice president for MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership. In this role he advocated for youth development policy and funding to support youth mentoring at the national and state level. In addition, he served as chief of staff for U.S. Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga. James has served as a mentor for more than 10 years and is the founding president of 100 Black Men of Greater Washington, D.C. He holds a Bachelor of Science in education from the University of Virginia.