James Johnstone is a Senior Principal with ReGeneration Schools, where he leads two elementary campuses on Chicago’s South Side: CICS Basil and CICS Washington Park. A Chicago native, James has dedicated his career to expanding educational opportunity and ensuring that students in historically underserved communities have access to rigorous, joyful, and high-expectations learning environments.

In his role, James oversees instructional strategy, school culture, staff development, and operational alignment across both campuses. His leadership centers on building strong systems that support literacy development, data-driven instruction, and structured school environments where scholars are empowered to engage deeply with academic content. Under his leadership, both schools have strengthened instructional practices, elevated student culture, and deepened partnerships with families and the surrounding community.

Prior to serving as Senior Principal, James spent more than a decade at CICS Basil, where he grew from classroom teacher into school leadership. He began his career in education after earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Clarke University, grounding his work in a deep commitment to educational equity and excellence in teaching.

James believes that schools have the power to transform life trajectories when high expectations, strong instruction, and a deep sense of community come together. Through developing educators, strengthening school systems, and cultivating cultures of belonging and achievement, he works to ensure that scholars are prepared to thrive academically and beyond.

Outside of school, James enjoys reading, music, and spending time with his wife, Nicolette, and their two dogs, Sophie and Theo.