North Attleboro High School Alumni Association

James Hale
Excellence in Education Award
2024

James Hale, born on October 15, 1948, in Attleboro, MA, embarked on a lifelong journey in education that left an indelible mark on the North Attleborough School District. A Grove City College, PA graduate in 1970, he later earned his MAT from Rhode Island College in 1974.

Family has been a cornerstone of James's life. Married to Janet, a fellow North Attleboro High School alumna from the Class of 1967, they built a family together with three children: Jennifer (NAHS ‘92), Jacob (NAHS ‘96), and Jayne (NAHS ‘97). The Hale family tree includes grandchildren Lyla and Brady Hale, Belle and Kenny Knox, and Everly and Weston Bardol.

James devoted the majority of his professional life to the North Attleborough Schools. From 1970 to 2006, he served full-time, and from 2006 to 2020, he continued to contribute part-time. His impact extended beyond the classroom through the development and support of programs like Heritage Day, which he helped shape from 1983 to 2007. A testament to his dedication, he passed the torch to colleagues Kim Schliefke and Wayne Griffin in 2008, ensuring the program's continued success.

His commitment to education earned him the Rotary Club Outstanding Educator Award in 1987. James found joy in activities outside the school walls, such as traveling throughout New England, especially Cape Cod, participating in the North Attleborough Historical Society, and indulging in his passion for gardening.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, James finds joy in the multitude of memories triggered by a word in print or an online article. The most rewarding aspect, he notes, is hearing success stories from former students, whether in academia or the trades.

Working in North Attleboro held a special place in James's heart as he witnessed his own children pass through the school system, emerging as fine adults and parents. The collaborative team known as the "SHOCKERS," comprised of Sandstrom, Hale, Ouimet, Cavanagh, Engstrom, Robinson, Sheila Fisher, and Smith, left an indelible mark on him.

The opening of the new school in 1998 stands out among his fondest memories, symbolizing growth and progress. Running into former students who still address him as Mr. Hale and eagerly sharing updates on their lives remains a rewarding aspect of his career.

Growing up in North Attleboro, James appreciated the town's versatility—its proximity to mountains, country, ocean, rural, and urban settings. To current students, he imparts timeless advice: "Never, ever, be satisfied with your position in life. Always improve not only yourself but those you influence and those around you."

Being recognized as an Excellence in Education Award Winner humbles James, who sees it as a shared achievement with the dedicated team members who journeyed through education alongside him. His legacy endures in the lives of countless students touched by his passion for education and unwavering commitment to their success.