Dean of students, Duval County Charter School at Westside

James "Coach" Jacobs, 44, is dean of students, athletic director and coach at the Duval County Charter School at Westside and has worked in schools for more than 26 years²⁴. He holds degrees from Florida State College and Nova Southeastern University². He is one of two candidates printed on the ballot for Duval County School Board District 4, an open seat; he received 39 percent in the August primary³⁴.

• Dean of students, athletic director and coach, Duval County Charter School at Westside²⁴
• More than 26 years serving schools in various roles²
• A.A. (2014) and B.A. in public safety management (2016), Florida State College; master's degree (2022), Nova Southeastern University; doctoral student there²
• Previously ran unsuccessfully for Jacksonville City Council (2017, 2019 and 2021, per Jacksonville Today)⁴
• Not currently on the board. District 4 is open because incumbent Darryl Willie is term-limited⁴. Jacobs advanced from the Aug. 18, 2026 primary with 39 percent and is on the Nov. 3 ballot¹³.