(Term expires December 31, 2013)

The question is not whether we can afford to invest in every child;
it’s whether we can afford not to.

A product of the Philadelphia Public Schools, James appreciated the opportunities a quality public education provided. He believes investment, commitment and support of public education will provide children, regardless of economic background, a path to fulfilling their dreams and our hope for the future. “We must continue to narrow the achievement gap and implement policies that prioritize instructional expectations as they relate to student achievement. We must have high expectations for ALL students, while continuing to be responsive to their needs as individuals." Of paramount importance is delivering top-notch instruction and services, and addressing the needs of Arlington’s increasing population of second language learners.

James earned his Bachelor of Science, Marine Engineering from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and his Masters of Engineering from the University of Virginia. 

Service to community and country has filled James Lander’s heart since he was a young man. Seeing pictures of his grandfather and father standing in their uniforms while serving abroad, during WWII and Vietnam respectively, brought James great pride and put him on a path that has shown him the boundless fulfillment that can be gained through education, leadership and service to others. James continues to proudly serve as an officer in the Naval Reserves, having been recalled after 9/11 in support of Operation Iraqi/Enduring Freedom. He is also a veteran of the first Gulf War, having served in Saudi Arabia.

James, his wife, and their daughter live in the Oakcrest neighborhood of Arlington.