A South Florida native, James Thomas graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. While in Tallahassee, Mr. Thomas also completed coursework in the field of journalism at Florida A&M University. He then interned and worked in the publicity/media relations department of the Orlando Magic of the National Basketball Association.

Mr. Thomas began his teaching career in 1996 teaching middle school in Martin County. After teaching 8th grade language arts for two years, he transferred to Lake Worth High School where he taught English and Leadership for five years, while also coaching baseball and serving as the Student Government Association advisor. In 2003, Mr. Thomas moved to Jupiter High School, where he taught English II, co-chaired the English department, and coached baseball.

In 2006, Mr. Thomas began his career in administration as an assistant principal at Lake Worth Middle School. While at Lake Worth Middle, he was integral in the opening and growth of the school’s Pre-Medical Sciences and Pre-Engineering Academies. In 2011, Mr. Thomas moved to Royal Palm Beach High School. Although a high school assistant principal for less than two years, he believes the experience was crucial to his growth as a school leader.

Mr. Thomas was named principal of L.C. Swain Middle School in December 2012. While there, he placed a priority on programming and a variety of class offerings, coupled with strong instruction in core classrooms. In five years, L.C. Swain opened Medical, Law, Information Technology and Dual Language academies, as well as AVID college readiness and Latinos in Action programs.

Mr. Thomas is proud to join the Blue Marlin team and is looking forward to learning and continuing the values and traditions that have made Conniston Middle School one of the pre-eminent middle schools in the School District of Palm Beach County. He enjoys coming to school every day to support students, teachers and staff in reaching their goals. He believes in the daily safety, growth, and support of every student and staff member on campus.

Mr. Thomas enjoys traveling, music, sports, and spending his free time with family and anywhere near the water.