James began his teaching career at LaSalle in 1970, teaching English from 1970 to 1976, except for a short break when he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as assistant principal and taught history. He is most noted for his success as head girl's basketball coach from 1973 to 1978. He also coached sophomore football from 1973 to 1977, freshman boys' basketball from 1972 to 1973, and freshman football in 1972. All of the teams he coached had winning records. After his success at LaSalle he moved on to Edgewood-Colesburg Jr./Sr. High School as principal from 1978 to 1985. Busta then moved on to serve as superintendent of Spring Grove Public Schools in Spring Grove, Minnesota. Over the years he has acquired a BA from Loras College, an MA from the University of lowa, an MA from Clarke College and has done graduate work at the University of lowa and the University of Wisconsin. Of his years at LaSalle Jim says, "I have many enjoyable and rewarding memories of my time at LaSalle. The people, specifically, the students, staff and parents associated with this institution are special."