James Connell

• Created a supportive and approachable classroom environment where students feel comfortable seeking help and achieving academic success.
• Guided multiple struggling students to significant improvements in both academic performance and conceptual understanding, fostering confidence and a love for learning.
• Earned the trust and appreciation of students and parents alike through personalized care and attention to each student’s needs, contributing to a positive and inclusive classroom culture.
• Developed engaging, hands-on science lessons aligned with state standards, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for Earth Science topics.

Head Middle School Wrestling Coach

• Provided additional after-hours instruction and technique training, dedicating time to the individual growth and skill development of each wrestler.
• Encouraged the highest number of sixth-grade athletes to join wrestling in Boyd Buchanan’s history, fostering early interest and participation in the sport.
• Scheduled and coordinated all competitions, referees, transportation, and communication for the middle school wrestling season, ensuring smooth operation throughout the year.
• Led a middle school team, composed of 75% sixth graders, to an impressive 2nd place finish in the division championship, highlighting exceptional leadership and team development.

• Designed and managed the entire preseason workout plan, running all preseason practices to prepare athletes for a successful competitive season.
• Initiated and organized innovative team-building activities, including Boyd’s first overnight hiking trip, fostering camaraderie and a strong team culture.
• Coached over eight dual meets independently during the first half of the season, demonstrating initiative and strong leadership under pressure.
• Collaborated closely with the head coach to analyze athlete performance and adapt strategies to optimize results during key competitions.

• As Signals Analyst (MOS: 2631): Analyzed and deciphered foreign communications within the US Marine Corps, directly impacting national security by reporting critical intelligence to commanders and potentially the President, addressing unusual activities and threats.
• As Special Security Officer (SSO): Oversaw the secure operation of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs), ensuring the integrity and control of classified information within command environments.
• As a Sergeant, led the 2D Radio Battalion's security program for three years, enhancing physical, personnel, information, and communication security protocols for the safeguarding of Sensitive Compartmented Information, following completion of the Security Managers Course.
• Solely responsible for the meticulous management, distribution, and tracking of thousands of highly classified items, ensuring their integrity and confidentiality within the battalion.
• Managed comprehensive background investigations and polygraphs in collaboration with NSA and NCIS, facilitating the security clearance process for personnel up to the Top Secret level and beyond.
• Administered the battalion's foreign travel program, ensuring all personnel complied with security procedures and documentation for safe and informed travel abroad.
• Managed all battalion-level security incidents, coordinating documentation and communication with involved Marines to maintain clearance integrity and legal compliance.
• Conducted essential security training for all 650 members of the battalion, ensuring up-to-date knowledge and compliance with security protocols and practices.
• Managed a platoon of 15 Marines, implementing a comprehensive mentoring program to support their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, ensuring comprehensive care and development both on and off duty.

• Volunteered as Co-Head Coach for Lejeune High School's wrestling team for two years, leading to unprecedented team achievements and personal growth in leadership roles.
• Enhanced team leadership by empowering the team captain with significant responsibilities, fostering his development and success in a pivotal role.
• Created and executed over 90 comprehensive practice plans, strategically enhancing team skill sets and performance throughout the season.
• Expertly timed peak performance training to coincide with regional and state tournaments, adapting conditioning programs to meet athletes' individual needs and team goals.
• Addressed and navigated conflicts and challenges, such as injuries and losses, with swift adaptability, maintaining team morale and focus on objectives.
• Guided the team to its best-ever performance in the regional tournament, showcasing the effectiveness of strategic planning and coaching.
• Successfully qualified five wrestlers for the state tournament, breaking a three-year drought and highlighting the program's development and competitive edge.

• Spearheaded the relaunch of the previously dormant McCallie Youth Wrestling Program, revitalizing its presence through strategic branding and community engagement, successfully registering over 30 young wrestlers and revitalizing the club's presence and impact in the wrestling community.
• Designed and executed over 60 detailed practice plans, focusing on enhancing athletic skills and fostering a love for wrestling among youth.
• Prioritized the athletic growth and enjoyment of young wrestlers, ensuring a foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle.
• Successfully administered a budget exceeding $10,000, optimizing resources for the club's development and activities.
• Orchestrated over 20 events and competitions, streamlining athlete registration and organizing celebratory gatherings for a cohesive community experience.
• Managed all aspects of communication with parents, including updates, coordination, and financial transactions.
• Directed the procurement and distribution of club gear and equipment for athletes and supporters, enhancing team identity and spirit.
• Mentored multiple wrestlers to achieve state championship successes down the road, with additional athletes earning runner-up and placement positions, signifying the program's impact on their competitive careers.

• Head coach for the McCallie Middle School Wrestling 2018/2019 season
• Developed and executed over 70 comprehensive practice plans, significantly enhancing team performance and individual athlete growth throughout the season.
• Provided personalized mentoring to over 30 student-athletes, fostering lasting relationships and ongoing guidance beyond the wrestling mat.
• Cultivated a supportive and passionate team environment, boosting morale and enjoyment of the sport, leading to enhanced team cohesion.
• Managed the logistics for 14 competitive events and numerous parent meetings, ensuring a well-organized season and strong community engagement.
• Facilitated over a dozen off-season tournaments and camps, offering athletes continued development opportunities and competitive experience.
• Maintained effective communication with parents through emails and meetings, establishing a transparent and collaborative relationship between the coaching staff and families.
• Mentored at least five athletes to eventually become state placers and state champions, demonstrating the impact of targeted training and development efforts on achieving high-level success.

• Active duty in the United States Navy at the Naval Academy Preparatory School and at the United States Naval Academy.