One West Point Grad's Mission to Get Low-Income Students to College
James Willcox ’92 believes in two things: training and teamwork – the keys to success whether on the battlefield or in the classroom. A former Black Hawk pilot for the Army, James now oversees Aspire Public Schools, which serves more than 14,600 students in 38 schools across California and in Memphis, Tenn. with the goal of preparing students to earn a college degree.
Few people grow up with the goal of reforming education. James is no different. However, he has witnessed firsthand the benefits of an education – at West Point and beyond.
Quality public schools offer a better life for the students served. It’s that simple. Sadly, too many children do not have that option. James started his professional career not in education but in the Army leading troops. He made a switch professionally to allow his focus to be on that simple goal of helping others improve their lives through education.
Attending college is estimated to double lifetime earnings, lifting these children out of a cycle of poverty and into positions of authority. Under James’ leadership, Aspire has implemented innovative new models of teacher training, college readiness, and data-driven assessment of students that has led to 100 percent of graduates being accepted into college.