James Ballantyne

James Ballantyne joined the faculty in 2022 as a multi-disciplined educator with a motto perfect for Christ School: “I do not teach science. I teach young men.” 

Mr. Ballantyne is responsible for Chemistry classes and coaches in the Outdoor Program. He has also taught Biology, Physics, Algebra, and Engineering in his decade-plus career. No matter what the subject may be, Mr. Ballantyne keeps student inquiry, engagement, and humor at the heart of every lesson.  

He received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Southeastern Louisiana University and his master’s in teaching from Nicholls State University. A gifted athlete, Mr. Ballantyne owned and operated a wrestling academy for five years before leaning into teaching full-time. He taught at three different high schools. However, Christian Brothers High School in Memphis helped him zero in on the all-boys environment where he felt he could have the greatest impact.  

Mr. Ballantyne and his wife, Jill, have four children, James, Elijah, Mahri, and Selah.